How can understanding John 3:14 deepen our appreciation for Jesus' sacrifice? John 3:14 in Context “Just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up.” (John 3:14) Looking Back to Numbers 21:4-9 • Israel’s rebellion brought poisonous serpents; many were dying. • God instructed Moses to craft a bronze serpent and set it on a pole. • “When anyone was bitten, he would look at the bronze serpent and live.” (Numbers 21:9) • The cure was entirely of God’s provision, received by simply looking in faith. Key Parallels between the Bronze Serpent and Christ • Both were “lifted up” publicly. • The bronze image bore the likeness of the deadly curse; Christ “became sin for us” (2 Corinthians 5:21). • Those who merely looked in faith were saved; “everyone who believes in Him will have eternal life” (John 3:15). • Only one remedy was provided; likewise, “there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12) What “Lifted Up” Means • Physical elevation on the cross (John 12:32-33). • Exaltation through obedience unto death (Philippians 2:8-9). • Display of God’s justice and mercy meeting (Romans 3:25-26). Deepening Appreciation for Jesus’ Sacrifice • He willingly took the very form of the curse (Galatians 3:13), though He was sinless. • The cross is God’s singular, sufficient answer to the poison of sin—no alternate cures, no human contributions. • His suffering was public, unmistakable, and intended to draw all who would merely “look and live.” • The simplicity of the gospel magnifies grace: faith alone, not works, secures life (Ephesians 2:8-9). • Isaiah foretold this costly exchange: “He was pierced for our transgressions… and by His stripes we are healed.” (Isaiah 53:5) Personal Responses to Cultivate • Marvel at the cost: the Holy One bearing our defilement (Hebrews 9:13-14). • Rest in the completeness of His work: “It is finished.” (John 19:30) • Renew a heart of gratitude; frequent meditation on the cross fuels love (1 John 4:9-10). • Share the remedy—point others to the lifted-up Savior, just as Moses pointed Israel to the bronze serpent. |
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