Author: Andrew Weitze

Unpacking the meaning of the cross.

The New Testament authors didn’t settle on one meaning of the crucifixion but instead offered a dozen or more metaphors to explain how it saves, but often without a clear explanation of how Jesus’s death accomplishes the saving work they describe. Because of this vagueness, wrapping our minds around the logic and meaning of the cross can cause us to miss the full impact it can have on our daily lives.

Why Did Jesus Have to Die? is written to help make sense of the crucifixion, to listen for how God might speak to us through it, and that we might say, along with Paul, “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.” (Galatians 2:20).

In addition to the book, other study components include a Leader Guide and DVD.

Unpacking the meaning of the cross.

The Leader Guide contains discussion questions and session plans for a six-week study of Why Did Jesus Have to Die?. It includes opening and closing prayers, optional activities, and weekly session goals. It is designed to be used with the book and DVD.

The New Testament authors didn’t settle on one meaning of the crucifixion but instead offered a dozen or more metaphors to explain how it saves, but often without a clear explanation of how Jesus’s death accomplishes the saving work they describe. Because of this vagueness, wrapping our minds around the logic and meaning of the cross can cause us to miss the full impact it can have on our daily lives.

Why Did Jesus Have to Die? is written to help make sense of the crucifixion, to listen for how God might speak to us through it, and that we might say, along with Paul, “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.” (Galatians 2:20).