Why Christ Died

Our local newspaper had an article on this date concerning the manner in which Jesus died. It gave several medical suggestions stated by various medical experts. I read the article with fascination because years ago I heard a noted cardiologist speak of Jesus' death as having been caused by a broken or ruptured heart. His contention was that Jesus died from the physical trauma as well as sadness from bearing our sins.

After I finished reading the article and pondering its message, I noted to my wife that the WHY of Jesus death was much more important than the HOW. I certainly believe the biblical record stating that Jesus was crucified. Crucifixion was a common Roman method of punishment. However, Jesus was not crucified for what He had done but for who He was. Further, His death was a part of God's eternal plan since before the foundation of the world (Eph. 1). God doesn't work by means of last minute plans.

The reason Jesus Christ died was not to demonstrate His ability to endure pain and suffering in the physical body. He was crucified for our sins. He became our substitute. He endured the cross, despising the shame of such an act in order to satisfy God's justice. Mankind is guilty (Rom. 3:23) and Jesus' death alone (once for all according to Hebrews 9:26), is able to save those who have trusted in Him. Paul tells us in II Corinthians 5:14 that "...one died for all..." Because of His death on our behalf, God has pronounced us forgiven. What a glorious message!

While the method of His death and the suffering He endured instructs us about His love for us, the WHY of His death should cause us to run to Him for the eternal life He freely gives.