Commentary: Christ died that we might live

Most people have no idea how much Christ suffered on that cross.”

Seven hundred years before Christ, the prophet Isaiah spoke of Him and His suffering. Isaiah was not popular; he was not welcome in the world. But he spoke God’s truth. There are a few prophetic voices today in our country. They, too, are not popular or welcome in our culture.

Why? Paul said, “For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God (1 Cor. 1:18). He added, “But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned” (1 Cor. 2:14).

Isaiah asked, “Who hath believed our report?” (Is. 53:1). The answer back then and now is, “Not many.” But Isaiah’s prophecy has come to pass. He said of Christ seven centuries in advance, “But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the Lord hath laid on him the iniquity of us all” (Is. 53:5-6).

Most people have no idea how much Christ suffered on that cross. He had already been scourged and was too weak to even carry his cross. His back was shredded and bleeding, and his scalp was hurting and bleeding from the crown of thorns they placed on Him. Then they nailed His hands and feet to the cross and lifted Him up to hang there until He died. It was pure torture. He died to forgive us of all our sins. He died that we might live forever by believing in Him.

Philosophy and science have not solved the problems of daily living. But God has provided both the answer and the solution. You and I cannot “straighten up” and get our lives in order. God can. All we have to do is truly believe in Christ and His gospel and “call on the name of the Lord.” Christ will save any and all who believe in him and, repenting, ask Him for salvation.

This is absolutely the most important, the most critically important, single thing anyone can ever do while alive on earth. It amazes me how many people procrastinate doing this. It amazes me still more how most people reject their only chance and hope of heaven. They do this by rejecting the Lord Jesus Christ. That is the only unforgivable sin, because Christ is the absolute only way to God. Jesus told Thomas, “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me” (Jn. 14:6).

But, beware, your opportunity is limited to life on earth. There is no chance of salvation after physical death. Once you draw your last breath, all hope of heaven is gone. All opportunity is ended.

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Ralph Fudge is the pastor of Big Ochlocknee Baptist Church in Coolidge, Ga., and has a Master’s degree in theology from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.