Explaining to Kids: Why Jesus Was Crucified and Its Significance
BY JEN AMBROSE
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Why Was Jesus Crucified? A Simple Guide for Parents
Hey there, wonderful parents! Today, we’re diving into a pretty big question: "Why was Jesus crucified?" You might have heard this question from your little ones or maybe even wondered yourself. After all, the story of Jesus is shared in many homes, especially during Easter. So, let’s hop on our time-traveling train and go back 2,000 years for a down-to-earth look at this significant event.
Who Was Jesus?
First off, imagine a teacher, healer, and friend, all rolled into one awesome person. That was Jesus! He lived a long time ago and many believed he was the Son of God. People from all over would gather just to hear him speak. And guess what? He even performed miracles, like feeding a crowd with just a few fish and loaves of bread! Now, that's a picnic I wish I could've attended.
Not Everyone Was a Fan
Now, if you’re thinking, “Wow, this Jesus sounds amazing! Who wouldn’t like him?” you’d be surprised. Just like how some people love pineapple on pizza and others don’t (and we won’t judge you either way), not everyone was on Team Jesus.
Some powerful leaders felt threatened by Jesus. They were worried that if too many people followed him, they might lose their power. Imagine if you were the most popular baker in town because of your delicious cookies, and then someone new came along with even tastier cookies. You might feel a little worried, right?
The Bigger Picture
Many believe that Jesus’ crucifixion wasn't just because of those jealous leaders. Nope, it was part of a bigger plan. In the Bible, it says, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16)
This means that Jesus’ sacrifice was a gift to everyone. By being crucified, he was taking on the mistakes of the world, giving people a fresh start. It’s like when you accidentally spill your juice, and then someone else helps you clean it up and says, "Don't worry about it." Jesus was doing that but on a much, much bigger scale.
Why Crucifixion?
Okay, here's the tough part. Crucifixion was a form of punishment in those days. It was reserved for those viewed as major rule violators. And even though Jesus hadn’t done anything wrong, those threatened leaders wanted him out of the picture.
So, they convinced the crowd and got Jesus sentenced to be crucified. It was a heart-wrenching day for many, but this was not the end.
The Resurrection: A Twist in the Tale
Now, just when you thought the story was over, there’s a twist! Three days after Jesus was crucified, his tomb was found empty. Yes, EMPTY! He had risen from the dead, and many people saw him alive again. This event called the Resurrection, was like the cherry on top of the sundae. It showed everyone that Jesus truly was special and that his teachings about love, forgiveness, and hope were real.
Why It Still Matters
Okay, so you might be thinking, "This happened ages ago! Why should we care now?" Well, many people believe that the story of Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection offers hope. It’s a reminder that even in tough times, good things can come out of it.
Plus, it's a lesson about love. Imagine loving someone so much that you'd do anything for them. That's how the story goes with Jesus. He loved us all so much that he was willing to go through all that pain.
Wrapping It Up
So parents, the next time your kiddo asks "Why was Jesus crucified?" you'll have the scoop. Remember: it was a mix of earthly problems (jealous leaders) and a heavenly plan of love and sacrifice.
Oh, and for those who might forget (because let's face it, parenting can be like trying to herd cats), just think of it this way: Jesus' story is a bit like your child's favorite superhero tale. There's drama, bad guys, an ultimate sacrifice, and a triumphant return. Only, in this story, the superhero's power is love.
Remember: Stories help us connect, understand, and share important lessons. And the story of why Jesus was crucified is one that has been told for ages, offering hope, love, and a touch of wonder.
For parents seeking a captivating and child-friendly introduction to biblical stories, The Beginner's Bible is a must-have. With over 30 years of trust, vibrant illustrations, and over 90 memorable tales, it's not just a Bible – it's the starting point of a child's spiritual journey. Perfect for gifts, classroom use, or simply bedtime reading, this Bible ensures a deep, enduring connection between the young reader and God's Word.
Till next time, stay curious and keep sharing those bedtime stories. And hey, if you ever figure out the pineapple on pizza debate, let us know.
Up next, Finding Purpose in the Gospel: Bible Verses on Why Jesus Died for Us.
