The Lamb of God.
Bruce Wells
Mar 17 2008


Most people can't stand the sight of blood.

But there was one night when God Himself was looking for blood. Why? Because during this night, the night of the tenth plague in Egypt, the blood of a lamb represented life being granted to anyone who wanted it. The tenth plague was the climactic plague: the death of the firstborn. This plague would strike the hardest blow aimed at the dynasty of Pharaoh himself—his own firstborn son, his successor, would be killed. This became the basis for the first Passover.

That night the Israelites were instructed to smear lamb's blood on each side of their doors so that the death angel would "pass over" their house. Only the blood of a lamb could save them. Even if an Egyptian were visiting a Jewish home on that night, he too would receive the benefit of life. This event was pivotal; it would rearrange the entire Jewish calendar so that Passover month would begin their year. Families would gather annually to celebrate this great deliverance that God had brought their forefathers.

John the Baptist introduced Jesus saying, "Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!" (John 1:29). John's reference to Jesus as the Passover Lamb shows that Passover was not just commemorative; it was predictive. Passover pictured in advance the ultimate sacrifice that would include the whole world. It vividly portrayed our deliverance from the slavery of sin by the shedding of blood.

Jesus Christ's sacrifice as the Lamb of God is pivotal for all believers. Every year we gather to celebrate this event that has come to be known as Easter. But it could be better named Resurrection Day. By shedding His blood, Jesus conquered sin and death once for all. There is every reason in the world to celebrate the central event of our faith—the death, burial, and resurrection of our Lord.

In 1835 Charlotte Elliot penned these famous words still sung by those who love God's salvation by blood: "Just as I am without one plea, But that Thy blood was shed for me, And that Thou bid'st me come to Thee, Oh Lamb of God, I come, I come. / Just as I am, and waiting not, To rid my soul of one dark blot, To Thee whose blood can cleanse each spot, O Lamb of God, I come, I come."

If you have not been washed clean by the blood of the Lamb, this Easter season would be the perfect time to come to the cross and to Christ. If you are certain of your salvation, remember to celebrate this season wholeheartedly. The Savior died so that you might live!


In His strong love,

Bruce

Matthew 22:37

A writer, Bible teacher, and speaker, Bruce Wells lives in Virginia with his wife and family. He is currently scheduling speaking engagements through the remainder of the year and would welcome the opportunity to preach at your church, revival or conference.

Email Bruce at secondlife4all@yahoo.com