These words of David are quoted directly by Jesus’ accusers thus fulfilling yet another prophecy. ‘He trusts in God, Let God rescue him now if he wants him, for he said, I am the Son of God.” –Matthew 27:43 Despised and rejected by all Jesus did in fact trust in God. Although Jesus could have saved Himself (Matthew 26:53), He could not have saved Himself if He was to save others.
God will indeed vindicate His Son at the Resurrection. Yet, at the cross, the leaders are right: Jesus is now facing His most severe test, the loss of His Father’s presence, leading to the heart-rending cry of being forsake and abandoned by God.
If Jesus were to step down from the cross, there would be no “blood of the covenant for the forgiveness of sins” (Matthew 26:26-29), no ransom (Matthew 20:28), no salvation from sin (Matthew 1:21), no Gospel of the kingdom to be proclaimed to nations everywhere (Matthew 28:18-20), and no fulfillment of Scripture. See what manner of love Jesus has for you. See how He has worked out your salvation by fulfilling every promise and each prediction. He did this friend, for you.
When I survey the wondrous cross. On which the Prince of Glory died. My richest gain I count but loss. And pour contempt on all my pride.
See, from His head, His hands, His feet. Sorrow and love flow mingled down! Did e’er such love and sorrow meet Or thorns compose so rich a crown.
God will indeed vindicate His Son at the Resurrection. Yet, at the cross, the leaders are right: Jesus is now facing His most severe test, the loss of His Father’s presence, leading to the heart-rending cry of being forsake and abandoned by God.
If Jesus were to step down from the cross, there would be no “blood of the covenant for the forgiveness of sins” (Matthew 26:26-29), no ransom (Matthew 20:28), no salvation from sin (Matthew 1:21), no Gospel of the kingdom to be proclaimed to nations everywhere (Matthew 28:18-20), and no fulfillment of Scripture. See what manner of love Jesus has for you. See how He has worked out your salvation by fulfilling every promise and each prediction. He did this friend, for you.
When I survey the wondrous cross. On which the Prince of Glory died. My richest gain I count but loss. And pour contempt on all my pride.
See, from His head, His hands, His feet. Sorrow and love flow mingled down! Did e’er such love and sorrow meet Or thorns compose so rich a crown.
-When I Survey the Wondrous Cross LSB #425 stanzas 1 & 3
Schnorr von Carolsfeld, woodcuts © WELS Permission to use these copyrighted items is limited to personal and congregational use.
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