Christ’s Suffering, Our Salvation: A Love That Redeems 1 Peter 3:18
Introduction
Today, we’re diving into a profound and powerful verse that brings us right to the heart of the gospel message—1 Peter 3:18. This verse, packed with truth about Christ’s purpose and mission, serves as both a beacon of hope and a reminder of the depth of God’s love.
Let’s read the verse together:
“Christ suffered for our sins once for all time. He never sinned, but he died for sinners to bring you safely home to God. He suffered physical death, but he was raised to life in the Spirit.” (1 Peter 3:18, NLT)
This verse is like a glimpse into the heartbeat of God’s love for humanity. Peter gives us three essential truths here: first, the sacrifice of Jesus, second, the substitution of Jesus, and third, the victory of Jesus over sin and death. We’re going to explore these truths today, understanding not only what Christ has done but how this truth transforms our lives.
1. Christ’s Suffering: The Ultimate Sacrifice
Peter writes, “Christ suffered for our sins once for all time.” In this opening statement, he emphasises that Jesus’ suffering was not just another sacrifice, nor was it incomplete. The phrase “once for all time” tells us that this was a final, all-sufficient act. The Greek word here for “once” (hapax) carries the sense of something happening once with lasting effect.
Jesus’ suffering fulfilled the Old Testament sacrificial system. Under the old covenant, sacrifices had to be repeated endlessly. But Christ’s sacrifice was complete and final. His suffering satisfied the justice of God and made a way for us to be reconciled with Him.
Hebrews 10:10 (NLT) says, “For God’s will was for us to be made holy by the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ, once for all time.” This verse confirms that Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross was the fulfilment of God’s plan to make us holy.
Imagine a debtor who owes an enormous amount of money—something impossible to repay in his lifetime. Then, out of love, someone steps in, pays the debt in full, and erases it forever. That’s what Christ’s sacrifice does for us—He cancelled the debt of our sin with His blood, once and for all.
John Stott once said, “The cross is the blazing fire at which the flame of our love is kindled, but we have to get near enough for its sparks to fall on us.” The closer we come to understanding Christ’s suffering, the deeper our response of love and gratitude becomes.
Do you live with the assurance that Jesus’ sacrifice is complete? Too often, we try to “earn” our forgiveness. Remember, Jesus paid it all. Our response should be gratitude and surrender, not a burden of trying to earn what He has freely given.
2. Christ’s Substitution: The Righteous for the Unrighteous
Peter continues, “He never sinned, but he died for sinners to bring you safely home to God.” Here, Peter highlights the innocence of Jesus and His substitution for us. The phrase “He never sinned” underscores Christ’s perfection, and “died for sinners” describes the great exchange—Jesus took our place, bearing our punishment so we could receive His righteousness.
The word “for” here in Greek (peri) means “on behalf of.” Jesus, the only sinless person, bore the sins of all humanity. This act of substitution is at the core of the gospel. He took the penalty of sin upon Himself to restore our relationship with God.
2 Corinthians 5:21 (NLT) says, “For God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin, so that we could be made right with God through Christ.” This verse reiterates the exchange that took place—Jesus took our place, and we received His righteousness.
Picture a judge who, after declaring a criminal guilty, steps down from the bench, pays the penalty himself, and sets the criminal free. This is what Jesus did for us. Though we were guilty, He took our place, paid the price, and set us free.
Tim Keller once wrote, “The Christian gospel is that I am so flawed that Jesus had to die for me, yet I am so loved and valued that Jesus was glad to die for me.” His love compelled Him to take our place.
Reflect on the depth of Christ’s love for you personally. He didn’t just die for humanity in general; He died for you. Let this truth draw you closer to Him in awe and gratitude, knowing that your worth to God is beyond measure.
3. Christ’s Victory: Raised to Life by the Spirit
Peter concludes, “He suffered physical death, but he was raised to life in the Spirit.” Jesus didn’t stay in the grave; His resurrection is proof of His victory over death. The phrase “raised to life in the Spirit” indicates the power of the Holy Spirit in bringing Christ back to life, a power that conquers death and sin.
This victory is crucial because it assures us of eternal life. Christ’s resurrection is not only a historical event but the cornerstone of our faith. It is the promise that death does not have the final word for those who believe in Him.
Romans 8:11 (NLT) says, “The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you.” This verse reminds us that the same Spirit that raised Jesus is at work within us, giving us hope, strength, and new life.
Imagine a seed planted in the ground that, after dying, sprouts into a new, living plant. Jesus’ death was like that seed, buried, but His resurrection brought new life that grows and multiplies in us.
N.T. Wright states, “The resurrection completes the inauguration of God’s kingdom… It is the decisive event demonstrating that God’s kingdom really has been launched on earth as it is in heaven.” Christ’s resurrection is the proof of God’s victory.
Are you living in the victory of Christ? The same Spirit that raised Him is alive in you, empowering you to overcome sin, fear, and doubt. Let His resurrection power bring you hope and strength today.
Conclusion: Responding to Christ’s Love and Sacrifice
Today we’ve seen the depth of Christ’s love demonstrated through His sacrifice, substitution, and victory over death. This love calls us to respond—not just in words, but in how we live.
Call to Action
Church, let’s live with gratitude for what Jesus has done. He died once for all, and His work is complete. Let’s honour that sacrifice by surrendering our lives to Him fully, living in His love and power.
Invitation to Faith
For those who haven’t yet accepted Jesus as their Saviour, I invite you today to receive His gift of love and forgiveness. Jesus paid the price for your sins, took your place, and rose again to offer you new life. All you have to do is believe, confess, and accept Him as Lord. Today can be the day of your salvation—come to Him, and let Him transform your life.
