Only a divine savior could become sacrifice for sins

FROM THE WRITINGS OF THE REV. BILLY GRAHAM TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY

Q: Most people will readily admit that Jesus was a great man. But why have Christians always insisted that he was more than a man — that he was also divine? — B.Q.

A: Humans do not decide who Jesus is. Jesus Himself said that he was divine. Faith in him is believing this truth. He said, “I and My Father are one” (John 10:30). His miracles back up his claim, as did his assertion that he could forgive sins — something only God can do (Luke 5:20-25).

Repeatedly, the Gospel writers pointed out the way he fulfilled the Old Testament’s prophecies concerning the Messiah, who was to be called “Immanuel,” which means, “God with us” (Matthew 1:23). But Jesus’ divinity was demonstrated most of all by his resurrection from the dead and his ascension into Heaven — events that were witnessed by hundreds.

What difference does it make? Only a sinless, divine savior could save us, for only he could become the perfect and final sacrifice for our sins. We should ponder this and accept it as truth, because this is truth that has stood the test of time. We should thank him daily for leaving Heaven’s glory and coming to earth for us. He walked the dusty ground of earth and suffered unimaginable pain, and he did it because of his love for mankind.

God could not consistently love mankind if he had not provided for the judgment of evildoers. But there is one thing that God cannot do; he cannot forgive unrepentant sinners. His desire is for all people to find his redeeming love. Let Christ occupy every area of our lives that others may see Jesus in us.

This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.