How can something be costly yet free?
Sounds like an oxymoron to me. Sort of like “jumbo shrimp” or “naval intelligence”
(I love shrimp and I served 30 years in the Navy). The normal world I live in requires my payment for something I want or need.
Yet, God offers me “free” salvation. I can’t buy it, earn it, or steal it.
This is what makes Easter and God’s amazing redemptive plan turn. How could something this costly to God be free to me? When you think about it, which of us would ever give up a precious son or daughter to benefit thieves, sinners and others who hate us? It would make no sense. Yet this is exactly what God did, he sent his only son to earth to take away our sins and give us eternal life! And it costs me nothing. I only must have faith in Christ. It’s hard to wrap my mind around it. For in a “fair” world, it would be me paying the price for my sins. Instead, it cost God everything, and for me, God’s deliverance and redemption is free!
On the night that Jesus explained this and his remarkable God-mission to Nicodemus (John 3:16), his point was crystal clear: no human could earn salvation, buy it, or steal it. Instead, redemption was God’s act alone, without merit on the part of any recipient. It would change the world forever. Observing the Law perfectly or paying homage in the temple in Jerusalem or living a life of solemn self righteousness could not earn God’s favor. Our deep sin problem could only be rectified by a costly substitutionary death by the perfect sacrifice. A holy God could not accept anything less! Jesus was here on earth to complete God’s mission of redemption and salvation through his death and resurrection. This mission would cost the Son of God his life!
Easter is for broken people. Jesus did not come to save those who thought they were saved or too good for it. He came to save those who were broken and needy. No matter where you live, in the suburbs or under a bridge, earthly status does not matter. Jesus is the savior for the rich, homeless, homeowner, tired, wealthy, and poor. His death and resurrection cost him everything on our behalf!
John Newton wrote about this remarkable act in his infamous song, “Amazing Grace.” The hymn debuted on New Year’s Day, 1773. John Newton, a former slave trader and sea captain, turned pastor, was gripped by his own sins, and realized the size and scope of grace. A grace given to him for salvation and redemption. Easter is all about God’s restorative grace to undeserving sinners like you and me. So costly yet so free!
Blessings to you!
Pastor Jim
If you have any questions, prayer requests or other issues, call us at 303-860-1272 or email us at info@christsbody.org.
