Why Did Jesus Have to Die?
The cross stands at the center of Christian faith. Yet, for many of us, it’s also surrounded by confusion, discomfort, or unanswered questions. Really, why did Jesus have to die? In our Lenten sermon series we’ll explore the many ways Scripture speaks about the meaning of the crucifixion, not as a single formula to explain, but as a story to enter. We’ll listen to the Gospel writers, the early church, and the voices of faith across the centuries as they wrestled with what God was doing on the cross. Each week invites us to hear the crucifixion as good news told from a different angle—news that heals, frees, forgives, challenges, and transforms. Whether you’ve carried faith for years or are still wondering what you believe, this series invites you to look again at the cross, not simply to ask how it works, but to discover what God is saying to us through it.
February 22 - The Logos & Recapitulation Theories (Bulletin)
March 1 - New Passover & New Exodus Theories
March 8 - Sacrificial Atonement & Penal Substitution Theories
March 15 - Ransom & Redemption Theories
March 22 - Healing Theory
March 29 - Moral Example & Moral Influence Theories
April 5 - Victory in Jesus (Christus Victor Theory)
A vibrant and authentic faith is not grown merely in one hour on Sunday morning. Our series devotionals give you the opportunity to engage with God’s word on a regular basis as you seek to become more like Christ each day. There is a daily Bible reading plan, as well as reflection questions that are linked with each week of the sermon series. You can use this devotional individually or in a formal or informal small group.
You can watch the services from this sermon series on our YouTube channel under the playlist “Why Did Jesus Have to Die?”