What does Jesus' crucifixion teach about God's love and justice? The Scene at Calvary (Luke 23:33) “When they came to the place called The Skull, they crucified Him there, and the criminals with Him—one on His right and the other on His left.” Love Revealed in the Nails • John 3:16 — “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son…” • Romans 5:8 — “But God proves His love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” • Isaiah 53:5 — “He was pierced for our transgressions… and by His stripes we are healed.” What shines through: – Love is not merely felt; it is acted out at immeasurable cost. – Jesus takes the sinner’s place, demonstrating that no one is beyond His reach. Justice Satisfied on the Cross • Romans 3:25-26 — God presented Jesus “as an atoning sacrifice, through faith in His blood… so that He might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus.” • 2 Corinthians 5:21 — “God made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God.” Key truths: – Sin’s penalty is real and must be paid. – God does not overlook wrongdoing; He deals with it fully in His Son. Love and Justice Embrace • Psalm 85:10 — “Loving devotion and faithfulness meet; righteousness and peace kiss.” • Hebrews 9:22 — “Without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.” On the cross: – Perfect love offers pardon. – Perfect justice demands payment. – In Jesus, both are fulfilled without compromise. Living in Light of Calvary • 1 John 4:10-11 — “This is love… He loved us and sent His Son… Dear friends, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.” • Romans 12:1 — “Offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true worship.” Practical steps: – Receive the gift: rest in full forgiveness secured at Calvary. – Reflect the gift: extend mercy and pursue righteousness in relationships. – Remember the cost: worship flows from gratitude, not obligation. Key Takeaways • The crucifixion is the ultimate proof that God loves you personally and sacrificially. • The same event upholds God’s unwavering justice—sin is dealt with, not dismissed. • At the cross, love and justice are not opponents but partners, revealing God’s perfect character. |
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