As we read the words of Jesus in John 3:14, we are met with a powerful analogy that draws upon a significant event from the Old Testament. Jesus says, “As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up.” What did Jesus mean by this comparison? Many readers likely scan this passage, recognize that Jesus is pointing to the cross, and move on. However, there’s more to Jesus’ words than that.
Those listening to Jesus at the time would have recognized this as a striking statement. To help us better understand what Jesus was communicating, let’s look at the instance with Moses that Jesus is referencing.
In Numbers 21:4-9, we encounter an account of the Israelites in the wilderness, plagued by fiery serpents as a consequence of their sin. In their distress, God instructed Moses to craft a bronze serpent and lift it up on a pole. Those who looked upon this serpent were healed and spared from death. This miraculous act of salvation through faith and obedience foreshadowed a greater redemption to come through Christ.
Jesus, in likening Himself to the bronze serpent lifted up by Moses, reveals the reason He came and the salvation He offers. The imagery of being “lifted up” carries dual meanings – pointing to His crucifixion on the cross and His exaltation after resurrection.
- Crucifixion as Redemption: Just as the Israelites looked upon the bronze serpent for physical healing, we are to look upon Christ crucified for spiritual healing and salvation. The Son of Man being lifted up signifies His sacrificial death on the cross, where He paid for our sins and offered Himself as atonement for all who come to Him in faith.
- Exaltation as Victory: Christ’s lifting up also signifies His triumph over sin and death. Through His resurrection and ascension, He was exalted to the right hand of God, demonstrating His victory over all powers and authorities.
The analogy of the Son of Man being lifted up invites us to contemplate several vital truths:
- Salvation through Faith Alone: Just as those who looked upon the bronze serpent were saved by faith, we, too, are called to look upon Christ in faith for our salvation. It is through believing in Him, not our own works, that we receive forgiveness, healing, and eternal life.
- Sacrificial Love: The image of Christ being lifted up portrays His immense love for humanity. He willingly endured the cross out of love for us, demonstrating the depth of God’s love and grace towards sinners.
- Victorious Savior: In His crucifixion and resurrection, Christ not only paid the price for our sins but also secured victory over sin and death. As believers, we can find hope and assurance in His resurrection, knowing that nothing can separate us from the love of God.
May we continually look to Christ, knowing that through His sacrifice and victory, we have been redeemed and reconciled to God.
