WHY DID JESUS HAVE TO DIE?

by

*A Teen Devotional on Understanding Christ’s Sacrifice”

BASED ON  HEIDELBERG CATECHISM Q&A 40-44*

## Opening Thought

Have you ever wondered why Jesus had to die? Maybe you’ve thought, “Couldn’t God have found another way?” These are deep questions that people have wrestled with for centuries, and they’re exactly what we’ll explore today.

## Read & Reflect

Take a moment to consider this truth: Jesus’ death wasn’t just a tragic historical event – it was necessary for our salvation. But why?

## The Big Question: Why Death?

Think about this: When you break something valuable that belongs to someone else, you need to make it right. You might need to replace it or pay for it. In a much bigger way, our sin created a debt we couldn’t pay. We needed someone to pay it for us.

## Going Deeper

Death might seem like an extreme payment, but it shows us two important things:

  1. How serious sin really is
  2. How much God loves us

Imagine someone taking your place to serve a punishment you deserved. That’s exactly what Jesus did, but on an infinite scale.

## Real Life Application

– When you feel worthless, remember that Jesus thought you were worth dying for

– When you’re tempted to take sin lightly, remember its cost

– When you doubt God’s love, look at the cross

## Personal Reflection Questions

  1. How does knowing Jesus chose to die for you change how you see yourself?
  2. What does Jesus’ sacrifice tell us about how God views sin?
  3. How should this impact the way we live our daily lives?

## Prayer

Dear God,

Thank you for sending Jesus to die in my place. Help me understand the depth of this sacrifice and live in a way that shows my gratitude. Give me the strength to remember this truth when I face doubts or temptations.

Amen.

## Challenge for the Week

Each day this week, take 5 minutes to think about one aspect of Jesus’ sacrifice. Write down how it applies to your life and one way you can respond in gratitude.

## Remember

Jesus’ death wasn’t just about paying for sin – it was about showing God’s incredible love for you. Every time you see a cross, let it remind you that you are deeply loved and valued by the Creator of the universe.