The Ultimate Sacrifice

For a person to give up his or her life for another is sometimes referred to as the ultimate sacrifice for good reason. There is no greater sacrifice a person could make for another. Paul wrote about those who would be less than willing to die for someone they knew, but then he pointed out a contrast. Jesus was willing to die for enemies, for sinners (Romans 5:6–8). Consider what one accomplishes by forfeiting one’s life for another person. What would make someone do this for an opponent? Sometimes the sacrifice is balanced with what benefit it provides. Saving a life by one’s life is certainly the ultimate sacrifice made by that individual. However, consider how many lives (souls) that will be eternally saved by the sacrifice of Jesus. So, Jesus’ sacrifice was the ultimate sacrifice in at least two ways. First, He gave up His life. Second, He gave up His life so all may have the opportunity for eternal life. Without taking away from those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice, how would one classify the ultimate sacrifice Jesus made for all who will obey Him?