Question 21: Jesus’s Death

Read: 1 John 2:1-2
Listen: 1 John 2

Question: Why did Jesus die on the cross?

Answer: Jesus died on the cross as a sacrifice to atone for our sins and reconcile us to God.

He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world. 1 John 2:2

John identifies Jesus as “the atoning sacrifice for our sins,” revealing why he died. Sin separates us from a holy God, requiring payment. Before God sent his Son, animal sacrifices could temporarily cover sin but were inadequate for permanent forgiveness. Sin is a human problem, and a sinless human had to die (Hebrews 2:17, Leviticus 1:3). This presented an impossible dilemma until God did something radical: the second person of the Trinity became human. Jesus, the sinless God-man, could represent both parties in the broken relationship. His death was a purposeful, substitutionary sacrifice. He took our place, bearing the penalty we deserved, satisfying God’s justice and making forgiveness possible for all people.

This sacrifice transforms our understanding of sin and God’s love. The cross reveals the seriousness of our rebellion—it required the Son of God’s death to atone for it. Yet, it simultaneously displays God’s love. He was willing to suffer personally to reconcile us to himself. When John calls Jesus our “advocate,” he emphasizes Christ’s ongoing representation before the Father, ensuring permanent forgiveness. His atonement extends to “the sins of the whole world,” making salvation available to anyone who believes. The cross demonstrates both justice and mercy—God upholds his righteous standards while providing the way for sinners to be forgiven and restored to a relationship with him.

TODAY: Contemplate the cross, reflecting on your sin’s seriousness and God’s love demonstrated there. Thank Jesus for becoming your atoning sacrifice and taking the penalty you deserved. Consider sins you need to confess and trust in Christ’s complete forgiveness. Remember that Jesus continues as your advocate, giving you the confidence to approach God.