“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”             John 15:13 NIV

The statement, “Lay down one’s life”, indicates a voluntary act. No one “murdered Jesus” or took away His life against His will. He voluntarily gave up His life on the cross. Jesus made this very clear during His life and during death: John 10:18; John 18:37; Matthew 27:50. Jesus tells us that His life was being given up “for his friends”. In other words, His death was not for Himself, but it was for others. Isaiah 53:4-6 makes this abundantly clear. When Jesus went to the cross, He was doing so on the behalf of others. It was for those people that He called His friends. Friend, Jesus was dying for us so that you wouldn’t have a Christless eternity. The words “lay down one’s life” is sanitary on the surface. It doesn’t nearly convey the depths of suffering that Jesus endured when He gave up His life for us. It is only by looking at several verses throughout the Bible that a picture begins to become clear that He paid a terribly high price when He died for us. Betrayed by Judas and deserted by the disciples (Matthew 26:47-56). Beaten by the Temple guards (Luke 22:63-64). Rejected by the very people He came to save (Matthew27:17-25; John 1:11). Scourged (Matthew 27:26). Mocked by the soldiers and crowned with thorns (Matthew 27:26-29). Beard plucked from His face (Isaiah 50:6). Stripped Naked (Matthew 27:35). Crucified – Nailed to a cross and hung up to die (Matthew 27:35). Absolutely marred beyond belief (Isaiah 52:14).

When His death is considered from this viewpoint, it takes on renewed significance and glory! He did all of this for us!

PRAYER THOUGHT

Lord Jesus, what amazing love in You laying down Your life for us.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Lord Jesus, when we consider the full implications of You laying down Your life for us. What amazing love! AMEN

INTERNATIONAL BIBLE READING ASSOCIATION (IBRA)

Matthew 6:1-8

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