And just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in him may have eternal life.” vss. 14-15
John 3:14-17
As John struggled to find a metaphor that would make the cross more palatable to his readers, he remembered an obscure incident from the Hebrew scriptures that was absolutely perfect. During one of the Israelites many rebellions against Moses the Lord had sent poisonous serpents as a punishment. Healing came after Moses crafted a bronze serpent and hung it on a pole for those who were bitten to look at. That story was the perfect metaphor for what had happened on the cross. Jesus was like that bronze serpent. All who believed in him would have eternal life! That’s why in John’s gospel, Jesus’ last words are recorded as being, “It is finished!” The cross was the end of the story, even more so than the resurrection. For John the dying figure on the cross was the salvation of humanity, and whoever believed in him would live forever. That message continues to have traction in the Church and for many the essence of the whole bible is John 3:16, “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life.” Those few words have brought healing and comfort to millions through the years, and they continue to touch hearts today.
Thought for the Day: My favorite bible verse!
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