Jesus saved in an unexpected way that surprised even the disciples who journeyed with Him for three years. Jesus clearly explained what would happen to Him, but the disciples never fully grasped what He was telling them. Matthew 16:21 From then on Jesus began to tell his disciples plainly that it was necessary for him to go to Jerusalem, and that he would suffer many terrible things at the hands of the elders, the leading priests, and the teachers of religious law. He would be killed, but on the third day, he would be raised from the dead. [1]
The people thought the Messiah would come as a King, rescue Israel, and drive the Romans out, but that is not what Jesus’ plan was. Jesus came to save people, including those who have yet to be born, including you! What a blessing our Jesus is.
Jesus Saves Us From Our Sin
Before Jesus came into this world, God gave Joseph insight into God’s plan for Jesus. Matthew 1:20“Joseph, son of David,” the angel said, “do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife. For the child within her was conceived by the Holy Spirit. 21 And she will have a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” [2] The Father sent Jesus into the world to save humanity from their sins which would have eternal consequences.
The Lord’s plan unfolded as Jesus entered Jerusalem during the Passover celebration to be the final sacrifice to take away the world’s sins. Matthew 21:8 Most of the crowd spread their garments on the road ahead of him, and others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. 9 Jesus was in the center of the procession, and the people all around him were shouting, “Praise God for the Son of David! Blessings on the one who comes in the name of the Lord! Praise God in highest heaven!”[3] Jesus knew to rescue you that, He would have to give His life. That is unimaginable love and mercy.
There is No Forgiveness Without the Shedding of Blood
Hebrews 9:22 In fact, according to the law of Moses, nearly everything was purified with blood. For without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness. [4] Jesus became the spotless sacrifice to satisfy God’s justice. John the Baptist called Him the lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world.
As a righteous judge, the Lord pronounced death on all people because of our sins. In the Lord’s mercy, He stepped down from His judge’s seat to pay the price for our sins Himself. Just before Jesus died, He said, “It is finished.” (John 19:30) What was finished? The payment for our sins. Jesus’ payment of sins would allow us to come to faith, receive forgiveness, and one day go to heaven with Jesus forever. Wow!
To learn how Jesus saved in an unexpected way, listen here:
https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/fulfilled-humble
[1-4] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation . Tyndale House Publishers.