From the desk of Pastor Ben

Jesus’ Death Was Within God’s Purpose

“While they were gathering together in Galilee, Jesus said to them, ‘The Son of Man is going to be delivered into the hands of men; and they will kill Him, and He will be raised on the third day,’ And they were deeply grieved.”
(Matthew 17:22-23)

Jesus was neither helpless nor passive in going to the cross. He willingly accepted the cross so that “all things which are written through the prophets about the Son of Man will be accomplished” (Luke 18:31). He willingly laid down His life (John 10:15, 17), which no one could have taken from Him without His consent.

In His willingness to give His life as a ransom for many, Jesus submitted Himself to the evil plans of men and to the righteous plan of His Heavenly Father (see Acts 2:22-23). Because of His willing submission to wicked men, He was “going to be delivered” by the treachery of Judas, “into the hands of men.” Also, because of His willing submission to wicked men, the Jewish and Roman leaders would “kill Him.” But because of His willing submission to His righteous Heavenly Father, He would “be raised on the third day.”

The disciples needed this reminder that Jesus’ suffering and death were in God’s plan, that these events would not destroy the Messiah’s work. The crucifixion did not catch Jesus of His Heavenly Father by surprise; it was the reason the Father sent Him to earth and that He willingly came.

Ask Yourself:
Jesus’ obedience even to death is our gold standard, the most complete example in history of perfect faithfulness to the Father’s will, no matter the cost. How does His example inspire you? Where is God calling you in particular right now to follow Him entirely, without wavering?