Through His Suffering, Our Salvation

"God had one son on earth without sin, but never one without suffering."  - St. Augustine of Hippo, theologian and philosopher (354-430 A.D.)

To quote the late American pastor Timothy Keller, "Suffering is actually at the heart of the Christian story." Having just observed Holy Week, we can see how especially impactful this statement truly is.

It's no secret that following Jesus Christ is not exactly a cakewalk. Broadly speaking, many good people have suffered and died because of their faith in Him. Jesus Himself suffered and died on behalf of our sins (1 Corinthians 15:3).

Our decision to follow the Lord Jesus Christ creates friction with the world (Galatians 1:10). In closely observing the teachings of the Bible, we position ourselves for non-acceptance, ridicule, isolation, even treachery (Matthew 5:10; John 15:18).

According to scripture, Jesus experienced suffering in many ways, both physically and emotionally. Apart from this, he also suffered spiritually, including being separated from His Father (Isaiah 53:4; Matthew 27:46; 1 Peter 2:23).

Many ask, "Why did Jesus have to suffer so horribly?" First, He didn't have to do anything! It was His choice and mission to do so (John 10:17-18). As far as the incredible suffering that Jesus endured, it was our collective sins that caused it. 

This, even more so than the beatings, whipping, and nails that were driven into His hands and feet on the cross. Jesus suffered and was sacrificed on our behalf so that we could have life. Suffering is an element of sacrifice, and Jesus was "the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!" (John 1:29).

Jesus’ physical torture was part of the necessary payment for our sins. We are redeemed or rescued from the bondage of sin through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ (1 Peter 1:19). This important takeaway cannot be stressed enough!

His suffering on the cross revealed the disastrous nature of sin, God's anger, the savagery of humanity, and the detestation (hatred) of Satan. It was on a skull-shaped hill (Golgotha) in Jerusalem that humanity was enabled to do its worst to Jesus.

Satan probably began to celebrate a perceived victory over the Son of Man. But it was not to be! By way of the cross that was intended to execute and destroy, God subdued sin, death, and Satan (John 12:31; cf. Colossians 2:15). His suffering and death ensured salvation for all who would believe.

Scripture: Psalm 119:50; Matthew 10:39; Romans 8:18; Philippians 1:29 ; 1 Peter 4:1 

Prayer: "Dear Lord, in times of trial, I ask for Your strength. Lift me up when I am weak, and carry me through the dismal and somber moments, Amen."

In Christ's Love,

Alissa