Lord's Day 16 — Wednesday: Why Christians Still Die
Lord's Day 16: The Death of Christ
Wednesday — Why Christians Still Die
The Catechism
Q40. Why was it necessary for Christ to humble himself even unto death?
Because of the justice and truth of God 1 satisfaction for our sins could be made in no other way than by the death of the Son of God. 2 1. Gen 2:17. 2. Rom 8:3; Phil 2:8; Heb 2:9, 14, 15.
Q41. Why was he buried?
His burial testified that he had really died. 1 1. Is 53:9; Jn 19:38-42; Acts 13:29; 1 Cor 15:3, 4.
Q42. Since Christ has died for us, why do we still have to die?
Our death is not a payment for our sins, but it puts an end to sin and is an entrance into eternal life. 1 1. Jn 5:24; Phil 1:21-23; 1 Thess 5:9, 10.
Q43. What further benefit do we receive from Christ's sacrifice and death on the cross?
Through Christ's death our old nature is crucified, put to death, and buried with him, 1 so that the evil desires of the flesh may no longer reign in us, 2 but that we may offer ourselves to him as a sacrifice of thankfulness. 3 1. Rom 6:5-11; Col 2:11, 12. 2. Rom 6:12-14. 3. Rom 12:1; Eph 5:1, 2.
Q44. Why is there added: He descended into hell?
In my greatest sorrows and temptations I may be assured and comforted that my Lord Jesus Christ, by his unspeakable anguish, pain, terror, and agony, which he endured throughout all his sufferings 1 but especially on the cross, has delivered me from the anguish and torment of hell. 2 1. Ps 18:5, 6; 116:3; Mt 26:36-46; 27:45, 46; Heb 5:7-10. 2. Is 53.
Today's Emphasis
Though Christ died for us, we still face physical death—but it is no longer punishment for sin, but a gateway to eternal life where sin is finally ended.
Scripture Readings
John 5:24
Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.
Philippians 1:21-23
For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. But if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my labour: yet what I shall choose I wot not. For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better.
1 Thessalonians 5:9-10
For God hath not appointed us unto wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ, Who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him.
From the Reformers
Belgic Confession (Article 37)
"We believe that the souls of believers, after they die, are immediately received into heaven and there enjoy a blessed rest, while their bodies remain in the earth until the resurrection."
Reflection Questions
• How does knowing that death is 'gain' rather than punishment change how you view your own mortality?
• What comfort does it bring you that death puts an end to sin and opens the door to eternal life?
Growing in grace through the Catechism — The Hearthside Team 🔥