Why did Jesus have to be sacrificed, let alone crusificed?
Since it was the day of Preparation, the Jews did not want the bodies left on the cross during the sabbath, especially because that sabbath was a day of great solemnity. So they asked Pilate to have the legs of the crucified men broken and the bodies removed. Then the soldiers came and broke the legs of the first and of the other who had been crucified with him. But when they came to Jesus and saw that he was already dead, they did not break his legs. Instead, one of the soldiers pierced his side with a spear, and at once blood and water came out. (He who saw this has testified so that you also may believe. His testimony is true, and he knows that he tells the truth.) These things occurred so that the scripture might be fulfilled, “None of his bones shall be broken.” And again another passage of scripture says, “They will look on the one whom they have pierced.”
John 19:31-42 (NRSV)
John 19:31-42 (NRSV)
I am not a theologian. My thoughts and opinions are gleaned from reading, interest in religion, and wrestling with what I find.
The crucifixtion of Jesus is a sacrifice by God (of God!) for US. Back then in particular, giving up something of value demonstrated your committment. Unlike today, where saying "I forgive you" is supposed to be sufficient, we know it is a hollow statement without giving up something of value (skin in the game).
Below are definitions of "sacrifice." Which resonate with you as being a sacrifice?
Verb: sacrifice
1. Endure the loss of
2. Kill or destroy
3. Sell at a loss
4. Make a sacrifice of; in religious rituals
Noun: sacrifice
1. The act of losing or surrendering something as a penalty for a mistake or fault or failure to perform etc.
2. Personnel that are sacrificed (e.g., surrendered or lost in order to gain an objective)
3. A loss entailed by giving up or selling something at less than its value
4. The act of killing (an animal or person) in order to propitiate a deity
1. Endure the loss of
2. Kill or destroy
3. Sell at a loss
4. Make a sacrifice of; in religious rituals
Noun: sacrifice
1. The act of losing or surrendering something as a penalty for a mistake or fault or failure to perform etc.
2. Personnel that are sacrificed (e.g., surrendered or lost in order to gain an objective)
3. A loss entailed by giving up or selling something at less than its value
4. The act of killing (an animal or person) in order to propitiate a deity
