I like this essay, thanks for posting it. Anytime I hear about Jesus dying, I always want to say “but he didn’t die - that’s the point of his death.” After all, we all will die. Dying, in fact, is no great feat - everything that has ever lived, and even everything that has ever existed, has, or will, die. It is the most common of all acts.
Coming back from it, however... that’s another thing. And yet, Jesus was on a mission. He knew he couldn’t die. he was deathless before he became born, and never died when he was dead (in fact, I think he was quite busy while he was “dead”). On the other hand, if his life had any meaning at all, it was because it did allow himself the human experience, with all it’s joys and torments. So yes, he also knew that he could have chosen to live a “normal” human life, but that’s not why he took human form in the first place.
Why did he save himself from the Cross? Because he nailed himself onto that Cross, for the love of us. The divine Thirst for Love for sinners is so immeasurable that it took Death on the Cross to satisfy. Witnessing the Lord’s Love for us, there is no need for any further proof or miracle to believe in him. They had crucified Christ our Savior, and then they abused him; so if the world abuses you, reviles you, consider you have been crucified with Christ.
Thank you so much for posting this.
I have been meditating on all Jesus has done for us. Some of it spent on my knees thanking Him for all He did and all He continues to do.
Here is a video that I think you will enjoy. Happy Easter
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OcKB-QDVEfc&feature=related
Whether you’re a devout Christian, an atheist, or an agnostic...the Kingdom of Heaven is in you, whether you believe in God or not
This above quote is a false statement. The truth is The Kingdom of God is only in those who believe in Jesus, and have been saved by the Holy Spirit.
Everyone has a conscience in which they are “without excuse” (and do recognize God), however they do not have nor are they a part of His kingdom unless saved by faith through His Grace.
-JS
Here’s a look at it from a similar but different angle which I heard posited by the late Dr. James Kennedy of Coral Ridge, FL.
IF Jesus had been an impostor; wouldn’t he have thrown in the towel when the scenario reched the point of the 39 lashes and the hammer and spikes; as you suggested?
But beyond that, there stood his mother. SHE had been standing by her claims of Jesus conception by the Holy Spirit all through His childhood and ministry. But when crunchtime came, and the hammer and spikes were ready to be utilized, wouldn’t you think she’d have finally dropped the charade and run screaming and confessing....and “please don’t kill my son; I confess; we meant no harm?”
But He COULDN’T RECANT, and neither could Mary! It was all true, and there was nothing TO DO but to let God’s Plan unfold, and keep trusting Him.