For Christ Also Suffered Once for Sins
Date: April 16, 2024
I use the BLESS method every morning for my devotional.
B - Bible Verse
L - Listen for God's Voice and pray
E - Explore the History and meaning
S - Study the Key Words or Phrases
S - Summarize and Share
You can read more about it by going to: What is a Faith Journal?
B - Bible Verse: 1 Peter 3:18 (NIV) "For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. He was put to death in the body but made alive in the Spirit."
L - Listen for God's Voice and Pray: Dear God, as we reflect on 1 Peter 3:18, help us to understand the depth of Christ's sacrifice for us. Open our hearts to receive Your Word and guide us in prayer as we seek to grasp the significance of Christ's death and resurrection. Amen.
E - Explore the History and Meaning: The first letter of Peter is addressed to Christians facing persecution and suffering. In verse 18, Peter reflects on the redemptive work of Christ, emphasizing His sacrifice for sins. Christ's death on the cross, as the righteous for the unrighteous, serves as the means to reconcile humanity to God. Christ's suffering serves as an example and encouragement for believers facing their own trials, reminding them of the ultimate victory found in Christ's resurrection.
S - Study the Key Words or Phrases:
Christ also suffered once for sins - Highlights the unique and atoning nature of Christ's sacrifice.
The righteous for the unrighteous - Highlights that Christ's sacrifice took the place of sinners, acting as a substitute for them.
Made alive in the Spirit - Signifies Christ's resurrection and victory over death.
To bring you to God - Indicates the purpose of Christ's sacrifice, reconciling humanity to God.
S - Summarize and Share:
1 Peter 3:18 reminds us of the incredible sacrifice and triumph of Jesus Christ. It's like Peter is saying, "Imagine this: Jesus, the perfect and righteous Son of God, willingly endured suffering and death for us—sinners who don't deserve His mercy. Why? So that He could bridge the gap between us and God, bringing us into a restored relationship with our Heavenly Father."
For me, this verse is not just about a theological concept; it's about a deeply personal encounter with the love and grace of God. It's a reminder that, despite our flaws and failures, Jesus chose to take our place on the cross, bearing the weight of our sins so that we could be forgiven and reconciled to God.
I'm reminded of my own need for grace and redemption. It's humbling to realize that Jesus endured unimaginable suffering out of love for me—that He would go to such lengths to rescue me from sin and death.
This verse challenges me to respond with gratitude and surrender. It calls me to live in the reality of Christ's sacrifice, allowing His love to transform my heart and shape my life. It's a reminder that I am deeply loved and valued by God, and that His grace is more than sufficient for all my shortcomings.
May 1 Peter 3:18 inspire us all to embrace the depth of Christ's love and sacrifice, allowing it to permeate every aspect of our lives and draw us closer to the heart of God.
4 Bible Cross References:
Romans 5:6-8
2 Corinthians 5:21
Hebrews 9:27-28
Romans 6:4