Read Isaiah 53:1-6

“Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” (John 1:29)

From the first Passover lamb in Exodus to the temple sacrifices in Jerusalem, Israel knew that sin required blood. The repeated sacrifices were a constant reminder: the wages of sin is death. Yet each lamb, goat, or bull was only a shadow, pointing forward to something greater.

Isaiah describes the Servant as silent before His accusers, willingly led “like a lamb to the slaughter.” Centuries later, John the Baptist saw Jesus and declared, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” Jesus fulfilled what every other sacrifice could not. He was spotless, perfect, innocent—yet willingly gave Himself for us.

The silence of Jesus is striking. He didn’t resist. He didn’t call down legions of angels. He went willingly, because this was His mission. His silence wasn’t weakness—it was submission. He was embracing the Father’s will, stepping into the role of the Lamb who would once and for all take away sin.

This is the unmatched sacrifice: not reluctant, not forced, but chosen. Jesus gave Himself for us, not merely as an example of love, but as the effective, sufficient, final sacrifice that actually removes sin. The temple veil tore. The sacrifices ceased. The Lamb was slain—and that was enough.

Reflection Questions:

• How does Jesus’ silence before His accusers deepen your appreciation for His sacrifice?
  
• Why is it significant that Jesus is called the Lamb of God, not just a lamb?
  
• What does it mean for you personally that Jesus willingly went to the cross?
  
• How does the finality of His sacrifice free you from trying to “add” to it with your own efforts?

Journaling Prompt:

Write about what it means to you that Jesus is the Lamb who was slain for your sins.