Daily Walk Through the New Testament
September 9

Read John 19:28-20:10

There are 2 ways people look at salvation. One is a “do plan,” and the other is a “done plan.” Those who select the “do plan” focus on earning God’s favor. The “done plan” is found in today’s reading. On the cross Jesus said, “It is finished!” (John 19:30). The work was done; the salvation was complete. In His death, Jesus atoned for our sin.
We must never fall into thinking we have in any way earned our salvation. Paul stated clearly, “By grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast” (Ephesians 2:8-9). We’ve received a gift — the best gift imaginable — not because of our “do plan,” but because of Jesus’ work on the cross in God’s “done plan.” The gift reflects the goodness of the Giver, not the worthiness of the recipients.
The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the cornerstone of Christianity. Christians cannot explain the resurrection — but the resurrection certainly explains Christians. It defines us. If Jesus is not risen, we should tear up our Bibles, fire the pastor, and sell the church buildings (1 Corinthians 15:17). If Jesus is risen, we must proclaim it loud and clear — and He is!
Declare the cross as the power of God for salvation. He died for you and saved you! Embrace it. Declare it!