Why Death?

Why Death?

"For the life of the flesh is in the blood, and I have given it to you on the altar to make atonement for your souls; for it is the blood by reason of the life that makes atonement." - Lev. 17:11 (NASB)

   Today we remember and celebrate (yes, celebrate) the betrayal, crucifixion, and death of Jesus Christ. Christianity is a unique company of people, for it is the only "religion" where its God died for His own. Most folks outside "the church," and some inside, do not understand why Jesus died on the cross. Was there not some other way to make the people right? In other religions mankind can carry out certain deeds or live in such a manner that their "god" will accept them, but not Christianity. 

   Christians are a distinctive group that believes the only way to be accepted by God is through the blood, according to the Bible. The blood theme is one that is found everywhere in the Bible from Genesis to Revelation. At the very beginning of Creation, man chose to sin defy God's command (sin) and bring down shame, guilt, and judgment upon himself and upon humanity. This same spirit of defiance is one all of us struggle with. And, because of our sin, we too are guilty and warrant the judgment of God, which ultimately is death. No amount of good actions, good living, or good intentions can change our guilt. In the Old Testament, mankind brought animals to be sacrificed in order to deal with their sin. However, in the plan of God, this was only a temporary solution that looked forward to a better one. This is where the cross comes into play. Jesus, who is God, came and allowed himself to be beaten and crucified, taking the guilt and judgment for our sin upon himself. Why? The verse above tells us that it is the blood that makes atonement, or makes us right before God. Rather than another inadequate animal sacrifice, the God of all creation came and shed His own blood to make atonement for anyone who will trust in Him to be saved. Peter said, "...knowing that you were not redeemed with perishable things...but with precious blood, as of a lamb unblemished and spotless, the blood of Christ." (1 Pet. 1:18-19, NASB) His death makes eternal life possible for us. His death was the only offering that was acceptable.

   

   On this Good Friday, we celebrate the crucifixion of our LORD Jesus Christ. Today carries a certain amount of somberness, as this is a memorial for His suffering and death. However, this is no mere memorial, for memorials are for remembering the dead. Jesus is alive! His death brought us forgiveness of sin, and His resurrection brought us eternal life. If you have never placed your faith in Jesus, or perhaps have walked away from Him, now is the perfect time to receive forgiveness for you sin. Call out to Him and confess your sin. Ask Him to forgive and cleanse you. Ask Him to save you. This will end up a Good Friday for you too!