“The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, ‘Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! This is he of whom I said, After me comes a man who ranks before me, because he was before me. I myself did not know him, but for this purpose I came baptizing with water, that he might be revealed to Israel” (John 1:29-31).
Picture Courtesy of Stephan Beaumont
When technology companies announce that they are bringing a new product into the market, they try to create anticipation and excitement from the moment the product is announced to the media until the day it is available for purchase. The amount of time spent discussing the product and how it will be used is truly amazing. It can be a thrilling experience.
Back in John’s day, everyone was well aware of the Messiah’s arrival and what it would mean to Israel. But, there was a problem. The people wanted the benefits and glory of His Second Coming before accepting the reality of His suffering during His first arrival. This is nothing new for us. We often want the benefits before working through the difficult realities.
Jesus’ first arrival was not about establishing a kingdom to rule over the nations. His first visit had to do with destroying the power of sin, the penalty of sin, and ultimately the presence of sin. Jesus came to destroy the works of darkness by becoming a sacrificial lamb. He did not come to rule, but to serve. He came to seek out and save those who were lost.
Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross served to provide payment for our sins. It perfectly satisfied God’s legal and holy requirement. Because of the precious blood of the Lamb of God, we no longer have to carry the weight and hopelessness of our sins. Jesus carried all of our sins on the cross. He made full payment for all of them—past, present, and future sins.
Consider the depth of God’s love for you. His primary purpose for coming to Earth was to provide a way for you to have direct access to the Father. He deliberately endured the pain and agony of the cross. As an innocent lamb, His intention was to permanently deal with your sin problem. He knew your limitations. The Lamb of God suffered and died in your place.
Read: Open your Bible and read 1 Timothy 2:5.
Reflect: Prayerfully consider the following: How grateful am I for what Jesus did for me? Have I accepted Jesus as my Savior? Why or why not?
Respond: As a result of these truths, what might need to change in my attitude, beliefs, and actions? What steps do I need to take outwardly?
The source of this content comes from our book, Walking with Jesus.