What does "lifted up from the earth" signify about Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection? Setting the Scene “ ‘And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all men to Myself.’ ” (John 12:32) “He said this to indicate the kind of death He was going to die.” (John 12:33) The Phrase Explained • “Lifted up” is one Greek verb (hypsōthō) that carries two layers: – literal elevation on the cross – exaltation to honor after resurrection and ascension • Jesus links both ideas—suffering and glory—in one breathtaking promise: His being “lifted up” would powerfully attract people from every background to Himself. Crucifixion: Raised on the Cross • Physical reality: nailed to wooden beams, His body was literally lifted above the ground (John 19:17-18). • Prophetic fulfillment: – John 3:14 - 15 “Just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, that everyone who believes in Him may have eternal life.” – Numbers 21:8-9—the bronze serpent foreshadowed a saving look at a lifted object. • Purpose accomplished: – Isaiah 53:5 “He was pierced for our transgressions…” – 1 Peter 2:24 “He Himself bore our sins in His body on the tree…” Resurrection and Beyond: Raised from the Tomb • God did not leave Him “on the tree.” Acts 2:24 “But God raised Him up, releasing Him from the agony of death…” • Exaltation continues: – Acts 2:33 “Exalted, therefore, to the right hand of God…” – Philippians 2:8-11 “He humbled Himself… therefore God exalted Him to the highest place…” • In Scripture, the same verb group describes both events—His cross-lifting and His heavenly lifting—so the resurrection/ascension are inseparable from the crucifixion in Jesus’ own words. The Drawing Power of the Lifted Christ • Universal scope: “all men” (John 12:32) means every ethnic group, social class, and gender—none are excluded from His invitation. • Attraction rooted in: – His sacrificial love (Romans 5:8) – His conquering of death (1 Corinthians 15:54-57) – His present authority (Ephesians 1:20-22) • Ongoing ministry: Hebrews 7:25 “He is able to save completely those who draw near to God through Him…” Living in Light of the Lifted Savior • Look in faith, just as Israel looked at the bronze serpent. • Rest in accomplished redemption—nothing needs to be added to His cross-work. • Celebrate resurrection hope—our future bodily raising is guaranteed (1 Corinthians 15:20-23). • Proclaim His drawing power—share the gospel confidently, knowing Christ Himself is attracting hearts (2 Corinthians 5:20-21). |
    |