The Cross: Sacrifice and Revelation
A study of the events surrounding the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
1. The Significance of the Sacrifice
1.1 Atonement for Sin
Verses: Isaiah 53:5; 2 Corinthians 5:21; 1 Peter 2:24
- Jesus bore the punishment for our sins.
- His sacrifice satisfied divine justice.
- Through Him, we are reconciled to God.
1.2 Victory Over Death and Hell
Verses: Hebrews 2:14-15; Colossians 2:15; 1 Corinthians 15:54-57
- Jesus destroyed the power of death.
- He triumphed over the forces of darkness.
- We have hope of eternal life through Him.
2. The Lamb of God
2.1 Fulfillment of Prophecy
Verses: Isaiah 53:7; John 1:29; 1 Peter 1:19-20
- Jesus was the ultimate sacrifice, foreshadowed in the Old Testament.
- He willingly submitted to His fate.
- His blood cleanses us from all sin.
2.2 The Spotless Lamb
Verses: Hebrews 9:14; 1 Peter 1:19; John 8:46
- Jesus was without sin, making Him a perfect offering.
- His purity qualified Him to be our Redeemer.
- We are made righteous through His righteousness.
3. The King on the Cross
3.1 Mockery and Majesty
Verses: Matthew 27:27-31; Mark 15:16-20; John 19:1-3
- Jesus endured humiliation and scorn.
- Even in suffering, His divine nature was evident.
- His kingship is not of this world.
3.2 The Power of Forgiveness
Verses: Luke 23:34; Acts 7:60; Romans 5:8
- Jesus prayed for His persecutors.
- His forgiveness extends to all who repent.
- His love is unconditional and transformative.
4. The Deity of Christ Revealed
4.1 The 'I AM'
Verses: John 8:58; John 10:30; John 14:9
- Jesus identified Himself with the divine name of God.
- He declared His unity with the Father.
- Seeing Jesus is seeing the Father.
4.2 The Fullness of the Godhead
Verses: Colossians 2:9; John 1:1; John 1:14
- In Jesus dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily.
- He is the Word made flesh.
- He is God manifested in the flesh.