Why couldn’t God just forgive us instead of allowing Jesus to die?

The question at hand bears resemblance to the query of why a judge cannot simply forgive someone for breaking the law. If God were to grant forgiveness without consequences, then what purpose would laws serve? Laws exist to be obeyed, and they carry specific penalties that must be applied when someone willfully violates them. If these penalties are not enforced for those who have deliberately transgressed, it would lead to injustice. Injustice stems from corruption. Therefore, if God were to indiscriminately forgive, He would be an unjust and corrupt deity, undeserving of honor or respect.

The sacrificial death of Jesus holds profound significance in relation to forgiveness. Jesus willingly laid down His life so that the possibility of forgiveness could be realized. By undergoing punishment for sins He did not commit, Jesus fulfilled the demands for retribution mandated by the law. Through His mercy, repentant individuals could have their sins credited to Him and receive forgiveness. Without Jesus’ perfect sacrifice and substitutionary atonement, repentance would have been unattainable.

It is essential to comprehend that God’s forgiveness does not negate the importance of justice. In fact, it upholds and fulfills it. The penalty for sin is not disregarded; rather, it is fully paid through the sacrificial act of Jesus. This act of divine justice and mercy demonstrates God’s perfect character and upholds the integrity of His laws.

By embracing Jesus’ sacrifice and repenting of our sins, we enter into a restored relationship with God. The forgiveness we receive is not a dismissal of wrongdoing but a recognition of Jesus’ payment on our behalf. It is a profound act of love and grace, demonstrating God’s desire for reconciliation and redemption.

In conclusion, the question of why God cannot simply forgive without consequences arises from a misunderstanding of the role of justice and the significance of Jesus’ sacrifice. God’s forgiveness does not undermine justice but rather fulfills it through the perfect atonement provided by Jesus. It is through this act of love and mercy that repentant individuals can receive forgiveness and enter into a restored relationship with God.