Why the Messiah Had to Suffer Before He Reigns
Why the Messiah Had to Suffer Before He Reigns
Many expected the Messiah to come as a conquering king, overthrowing enemies and establishing God's Kingdom. But the New Testament reveals that Jesus the Messiah came first to suffer and die — not to defeat Rome, but to defeat sin.
The Real Problem Was Sin, Not Politics
In the first century, many Jews expected a political Messiah who would:
- Deliver them from Roman rule
- Restore the throne of David
- Bring peace and justice to Israel
But Jesus revealed that humanity's deeper bondage was spiritual:
- “Everyone who sins is a slave to sin.” (John 8:34)
- “The Son of Man came to give His life as a ransom for many.” (Mark 10:45)
=== Sin had to be defeated before a righteous Kingdom could be established.
God’s Justice Demands Atonement
God is holy and just. Before He can reign among His people, the problem of sin must be addressed.
Jesus fulfills:
- The Suffering Servant of Isaiah 53: “He was pierced for our transgressions...”
- The Passover Lamb (Exodus 12)
- The sin offering of Leviticus 16 (Yom Kippur)
The First Coming: Redemption
Jesus' first coming focused on:
- Teaching truth
- Revealing the Father
- Dying for sin
- Rising in victory
> “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” (John 1:29)
His mission was to create **a redeemed people**, not just an earthly kingdom.
The Second Coming: Restoration
When Jesus returns:
- He will reign as King (Revelation 19:16)
- He will judge the nations (Matthew 25:31–46)
- He will restore all things (Acts 3:21)
Comparison Table: First and Second Coming of the Messiah
| First Coming | Second Coming |
|---|---|
| As a servant (Isaiah 53) | As a king (Zechariah 14) |
| Deals with sin | Deals with Satan and rebellion |
| Brings salvation | Brings judgment |
| Offers peace | Enforces peace |
| Rejected by many | Recognized by all (Philippians 2:10–11) |
Summary
The Messiah had to suffer first because sin was the core problem. He came to:
- Bear sin
- Break the power of death
- Purchase a redeemed people
Only once sin is dealt with can He return as King to rule a holy people in a holy Kingdom.