"But this man [Jesus], after offering one sacrifice for sins forever, sat down at the right hand of God."
Dear families,
The phrase “take away” has many different connotations and applications. For a four-year old, it means someone stole their toy. For a basketball player, it means a steal. For a math teacher, it means subtraction. So, what does it mean that Jesus came to “take away the sin of the world”?
In John 1:29, as John the Baptist saw Jesus coming along the banks of the river where he had been baptizing people and calling for repentance, John said, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!”
This statement raises a question that’s important for every person: What does it mean that Jesus came to take away the sin of the world? A look to Hebrews 10 brings clarity as we seek to allow Scripture to help interpret the question.
The writer of Hebrews reminds us that the Old Testament sacrificial system was good, but not enough. Though this system proved to be a faithful response to the call of God for His people prior to Christ’s arrival, it was never intended to be a permanent means of atonement for the sin of God’s people.
Hebrews 10:12-14 says, “But this man [Jesus], after offering one sacrifice for sins forever, sat down at the right hand of God. He is now waiting until his enemies are made his footstool. For by one offering he has perfected forever those who are sanctified.”
Jesus was the perfect sacrifice because He lived a sinless life and died once as a single offering for sins. All who trust in His death and resurrection are eternally forgiven as His sacrifice has satisfied the wrath of God on their behalf.
This is what it means that Jesus takes away the sin of the world: Jesus died once for all, that those who trust in Christ would no longer be held captive by their sin and that they would be able to stand before God, redeemed by the blood of Jesus shed for sins. This is the greatest “take away” the world has ever known.
Check out the resources below designed to help you lead your family in worship as well as suggestions for morning and evening prayer times and family activities. You can also find the Adult Daily Discipleship Guide that accompanies our adult groups.
FAMILY TALKING POINTS
CHRIST CONNECTION
This is the big idea of how this week’s Bible story points to Jesus.
Preschool: Jesus lived a perfect life, died on the cross, and rose from the dead. When we trust in Him, God forgives our sin forever.
Kids: Jesus came to be the sacrifice for sin. He lived a sinless life, died on the cross, and rose from the dead. In Him, we have complete forgiveness once and for all.
BIG PICTURE QUESTION & ANSWER
This is an important biblical truth that your child will encounter each week of this unit.
Preschool: What did Jesus do to save us? Jesus died on the cross and rose from the dead.
Kids: What did Jesus do to save us? Jesus lived a sinless life, died on the cross, and rose from the dead.
KEY PASSAGE
This is a Bible verse that relates to what your child will encounter each week of this unit.
Younger Preschool: Jesus takes away the sin of the world. John 1:29
Kids: John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” John 1:29
At Home
Family Worship, Prayer, and Activities
Adult Daily Discipleship Guide
** Next week: Jesus Told Nicodemus about Eternal Life (John 3)
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