Daily Devotion With Pastor Dan Nickerson April 7th, 2023
Since the wages of sin is death, man by virtue of his transgression, forfeited his right to live (Romans 6:23). But, in the marvelous sacred scheme of things, it was determined that God’s Son would offer his life in exchange for man’s. Without the shedding of blood there could be no remission of sins (Hebrews 9:22).
Christ had to die in some fashion that involved the shedding of his blood. In as much as the “life” (Heb. – “nephesh”) resides In the blood (Leviticus 17:10-14). It was necessary for the Lord to shed His blood to effect our redemption. Isaiah speaks of the Messiah’s “soul/life” (nephesh) being “poured out” unto death (Isaiah 53:10-12). Centuries later, notice what Jesus said (Matthew 26:28). Take a moment and read also…..(1 Peter 1:17-18) (Hebrews 13:12) (Colossians 1:14). Thank-You Lord for Your shed blood!
Also, the Old Testament tells us that hanging a body on a tree was to be done to those accursed of God “He that is hanged is accursed of God” (Deuteronomy 21:22-23) (Galatians 3:13-14).
It is significant that the “cross” is designated as a “tree” several times in the New Testament (Acts 5:30) (Acts 10:39) (1 Peter 2:24). The Lord’s death by means of the crucifixion on the cross was a fitting act of Him bearing the “curse” and “shame” of sin for the sinner (Hebrews 12:2). Yet, He submitted Himself to the horrible death of the cross (John 10:17-18) (Philippians 2:5-8). Why?
- To demonstrate God’s love – (Romans 5:8) – Just how much our Lord loves us?
- To destroy sin – (Hebrews 9:26)
- To destroy the works of the devil – (1 John 3:8)
- He did it for you! – (Isaiah 53:4-6) (Luke 22:20) (1 Corinthians 15:3-4)