Our world has witnessed many revolutions, but none quite so profound as that which divided human history itself into two parts: B.C. and A.D. Very seldom have there been bloodless revolutions, and this one was not entirely bloodless either. Jesus shed His own blood to bring about needed change. But it is important to understand the kind of revolution Jesus brought about.

It was not a political revolution at all. Some of the disciples had wanted that kind of revolution. They wanted a revolt against Rome. But that is not what Jesus’ mission was all about. The church’s business is not political, at least not if that church is faithful to the Lord’s purpose. Neither is it economic or cultural in nature. It was not a social revolution. Today many religious leaders emphasize these things, but Jesus did not. Changes may be needed in these areas, but that is not why Jesus died on the cross.

Jesus’ mission had to do with sin. It was sin that estranged men and women from God, and is the origin of all kinds of problems, including ultimate separation from God which is eternal death (Romans 6:23). Jesus’ birth began a sequence leading unto salvation from sin (Matt. 1:21). He lived His life and then gave His life to save the lost (Matt. 18:11). His blood was shed for the forgiveness of sins (Matt. 26:28).

You see, Jesus had to do with reforming what was inside of us. To change hearts and lives. To prepare us for life, for death, and for life everlasting.

 

By Jon W. Quinn
The Front Page
From Expository Files 17.4;  April 2010

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