Biblical explanation
John the Baptist introduced Jesus with these words: “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world” (), deliberately echoing the Passover lamb whose blood protected Israel from judgment in Egypt () and the daily sacrificial lambs offered in the sanctuary. Unlike animal sacrifices, which had to be repeated endlessly and could never truly remove sin (), Jesus offered Himself once, and “by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us” (). Revelation continues this imagery, describing the redeemed singing “the song of the Lamb” in heaven (), showing that Christ's sacrificial identity remains central to the story of redemption from beginning to end.
In brief
John the Baptist introduced Jesus with these words: “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world” (), deliberately echoing the Passover lamb whose blood protected Israel from judgment in Egypt () and the daily sacrificial lambs offered in the sanctuary.
Bible references
Go deeper into this topic Saved by Grace: Why Did Jesus Have to Die? Start the studyThis answer is written and reviewed by the Word Oasis Editorial Team, and is presented with supporting references so you can examine each passage in context. If you notice an error or unclear statement, please suggest a correction.