Under the Old Covenant, the sacrificial system allowed people to receive atonement (a covering) for their sins. These sacrifices, however, were always temporary solutions to the deeper problem of sin. It was not until Jesus came as the perfect sacrifice for our sins “once for all” (Heb. 7:27) and established a better covenant (Hebrews 8) that people could know their sins were fully and forever paid for.

Jesus’ died for the forgiveness of sins! Understanding the significance of Christ’s death on the Cross explains why the Easter holiday is so important for Christians. The death and resurrection of Christ open a door to God’s presence, which was previously unattainable. After marking the sorrows of Good Friday, the jubilation of the empty tomb can hardly be contained!

Muslims are taught to believe that Jesus was not crucified. The Quran states, "They neither killed nor crucified him—it was only made to appear so." Christians, based on historical evidence, testify that Jesus was crucified and raised from the dead on the third day. The whole of history and faith revolves around the historical Jesus, the Son of God in flesh, who paid the ultimate sacrifice so people could receive forgiveness of sin and assurance of salvation.