Good Friday is a crucial day in the Christian faith. Christians commemorate the crucifixion of Jesus Christ on Golgotha (Matthew 27:31-66). But why did Jesus have to die on a cross? Let’s explore this questions to better understand the meaning of the cross on Good Friday.
The problem
According to the Bible, a separation between God and humanity was caused by sin (Romans 2:23). This separation leads to a broken relationship with God, one that cannot simply be restored through human efforts (Isaiah 59:2). The gap is too wide and can only be bridged by God Himself.
To understand this situation, we must go back to the beginning. Human sin not only brought guilt, but created distance between us and God. Yet, God’s love remains unchanged; He made a plan to restore this broken relationship.
The role of Jesus
God made a plan to restore our relationship to Him. Jesus Christ, the Son of God, came to earth to restore the broken relationship between God and humans (John 3:16-17). His life was free from sin, making Him the perfect representative and substitute for mankind (Hebrews 4:15).
Jesus’ coming was not a coincidence, but an expression of God’s love and grace. Through His words and actions, He showed the way to a restored connection with God, which would ultimately be fulfilled through the cross.
The cross and crucifixion
And so we come to the crucifixion. On Good Friday, Jesus was crucified on Calvary, a hill outside Jerusalem (Luke 23:33). In Christianity, the cross symbolizes the ultimate sacrifice. Through His death, Jesus took the punishment for humanity’s sins upon Himself, making forgiveness and reconciliation with God possible (1 Peter 2:24).
It is important to realize that the cross is not only a symbol of suffering but also of victory. Jesus’ death on Calvary was not the end but the beginning of new hope for everyone who believes in Him.
The meaning of Good Friday
Good Friday reminds believers of the immense love and grace of God, who was willing to give His own Son for the salvation of humanity (Romans 5:8). It is a day to reflect on the suffering and sacrifice of Jesus and to be grateful for the restored relationship with God that was made possible through Him. This reminds us that despite our failures, God never lets go of us (Colossians 1:20).
Good news
The cross on Calvary and the events of Good Friday are at the heart of the Christian faith. They highlight the seriousness of sin, the necessity of reconciliation, and God’s deep love for humanity. This is good news because, through these events, God offers the way to forgiveness and a renewed relationship with Him (2 Corinthians 5:18).
