The Bible Project Daily Podcast The Serpent and the Cross. (Numbers 21: 1-9)
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Welcome and Episode Notes:
Welcome, everyone, to today's episode titled 'The Serpent and the Cross.'
Today, we delve into one of the most intriguing passages of the Old Testament, where the narrative takes a symbolic turn, revealing intensely profound truths about both human nature and salvation.
Imagine the scene: the Israelites, weary from their journey through the desert, find themselves once again grappling with doubt and discouragement. Despite recent victories and divine guidance, they falter, longing for the comfort of their past captivity. They complain bitterly, even expressing disdain for the miraculous provision of manna from heaven.
But their discontentment leads to dire consequences. Fiery serpents, sent by the Lord, strike the people, bringing death and despair. In their desperation, they turn to Moses, seeking deliverance from the deadly serpents.
Now, here's where the story takes an unexpected turn. Instead of simply removing the serpents, God instructs Moses to fashion a bronze serpent and raise it on a pole. Those who are bitten need only to look upon this image to be saved from death.
It's a perplexing solution, isn't it? Yet, in its symbolism lies a lesson for us all. Just as the Israelites were saved by gazing upon the bronze serpent, we, too, find salvation by fixing our eyes on the cross of Christ.
In John 3, Jesus himself references this very passage, likening his impending crucifixion to the lifting up of the serpent in the wilderness. He declares that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
The cross, much like the bronze serpent, becomes a focal point of salvation. It is where our sin and suffering meet divine grace and redemption. By looking upon the crucified Christ and believing in his sacrifice, we find deliverance from the sting of sin and the promise of eternal life.
So, as we reflect on this ancient allegory, let us remember that salvation is not about our own efforts or merits but about trusting in the promise of God's grace.
May we, like the Israelites of old, fix our eyes on the cross and find in it the hope and salvation we so desperately need."
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