The Death and Resurrection of the KingSample

Jesus did not come down from the cross

So also the chief priests, with the scribes and elders, mocked Him, saying, ‘He saved others; he cannot save himself. He is the King of Israel; let him come down now from the cross, and we will believe in him.’” (Matthew 27:41-42)

When Jesus began His work on earth, He was immediately tested by the devil. If Jesus worshiped the devil, the devil would give Him all the kingdoms of the world. Without Jesus having to suffer for it. Jesus' response was short and clear: “Be gone, Satan! For it is written, ‘You shall worship the Lord your God and Him only shall you serve.’” (Matthew 4:10) Jesus did not fall for the devil's lies. He knew what God's plan was, and He would carry it out.

On the cross, Jesus faced a similar temptation. All His enemies had gathered to mock Him: the chief priests, the scribes, the elders and the Pharisees. If Jesus would come down from the cross, they sneered, then they would believe in Him. That was the ideal way out of His terrible suffering! That way Jesus' pain would end and He would instead receive all the glory.

Of course, this was not true. Jesus had shown His power often enough, but they wanted more evidence each time. Moreover, Jesus had not come to earth to be honored, but to die for sinful people and thus give them eternal life. That was God's plan, and He would carry it out.

Praise God that nothing could stop Jesus from His goal!