DEAR REV. GRAHAM: Why didn't Jesus flee from His enemies instead of allowing them to put Him to death? He must have known what they intended to do to Him, didn't He?
-- C.G.
DEAR C.G.: Yes, Jesus was fully aware that some people would be totally opposed to Him, and that eventually their plans would succeed and He would be put to death. And yet He refused to stop His ministry or flee from those who were out to destroy Him.
Why? He knew that God had sent Him into the world for one reason -- to become the final and complete sacrifice for our sins. For countless generations people had presented all kinds of offerings and sacrifices to God to atone for their sin, including animals. But these could never take away their sins completely and finally.
But Christ brought all these to an end when He came down from Heaven to become the final sacrifice for our sins through His death on the cross. He was without sin, but on the cross all our sins were transferred to Him, and He died in our place. Shortly before His enemies came to arrest Him, Jesus declared, "What shall I say? 'Father, save me from this hour'? No, it was for this very reason I came to this hour." (John 12:27)
Never doubt Christ's love for you, a love so deep and unchanging that He was willing to give His life for you. What have you done in response? If you have never done so ... or if you are unsure ... turn to Christ and put your faith and trust in Him alone for your salvation. The Bible says, "God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." (Romans 5:8)
Write to Billy Graham in care of Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, 1 Billy Graham Parkway, Charlotte, N.C. 28201 or visit the website at
billygraham.org
Weekend on 10/20/2016