Untitled Sermon

21 For you have been called for this purpose, since Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example for you to follow in His steps,

22 WHO COMMITTED NO SIN, NOR WAS ANY DECEIT FOUND IN HIS MOUTH;

23 and while being reviled, He did not revile in return; while suffering, He uttered no threats, but kept entrusting Himself to Him who judges righteously;

24 and He Himself bore our sins in His body on the cross, so that we might die to sin and live to righteousness; for by His wounds you were healed.

25 For you were continually straying like sheep, but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Guardian of your souls.

Jesus came to save that which was lost. He suffered in the place of undeserving creatures. Those who he has saved should live by His example, out of gratitude, thankfulness, knowing what He did was an act of grace, and mercy. Not giving us what we have earned, but giving us much more.

The things we do, say, think that offend God are already forgiven. He died to take the punishment for us in our place.

Mark 15:29-32 Jesus was on the cross hanging by his hands and feet. He appeared weak and defeated.

New American Standard Bible: 1995 Update Chapter 15

29 Those passing by were hurling abuse at Him, wagging their heads, and saying, “Ha! You who are going to destroy the temple and rebuild it in three days,

30 save Yourself, and come down from the cross!”

31 In the same way the chief priests also, along with the scribes, were mocking Him among themselves and saying, “He saved others; He cannot save Himself.

32 “Let this Christ, the King of Israel, now come down from the cross, so that we may see and believe!” Those who were crucified with Him were also insulting Him.

On the cross Jesus was in terrible pain and was being wrongly punished by sinful people.

Q: As our example. How did he respond?

A: The Apostle Peter records for us that He was being reviled, and in Marks Gospel we have that event explained. People where mocking him and telling him to save himself. Notice He did not revile back.

Luke 23:34 Jesus being treated this way wrongly, see what he says:

New American Standard Bible: 1995 Update Chapter 23

34 But Jesus was saying, “Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing.” And they cast lots, dividing up His garments among themselves.

forgive them. he wasn’t mad or angry. Jesus says forgive them.

Q: What should our response be when someone mocks or talks bad about us given the example Jesus provided on the cross?