It hasn’t been all that long since we sang beautiful hymns of Jesus’ birth. It was a peaceful night. A holy night. And all the world rejoiced because the Messiah had arrived.

But what we sometimes fail to remember is that Jesus came to earth on that quiet, holy night for one purpose. To redeem the world. He was born to die…on purpose.

Leading up to His death, Jesus shared God’s message of salvation with those who would listen. He mentioned that He was the only Way to be saved (John 14:6). Jesus instituted the Lord’s Supper on the night of His arrest stating that His blood would be the new covenant, poured out for the forgiveness of sin (Matthew 26:28).

And let’s not forget Jesus’ stunning words in John 3:16 (NIV). “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

All of these verses point to one thing. Without Jesus, there would be no redemption of mankind. We only find salvation through Jesus Christ. There is no other way.

The disciples and epistle writers offered more evidence of this as well. Peter, speaking before the Sanhedrin told them that “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12 – NIV) Perhaps you know another musical piece which uses this verse as the basis for the lyrics.

And then, if you take a few moments to read Hebrews 9:11-28, you’ll find this section of Scripture is all about the blood of Jesus. It is a good reminder that without the shedding of Jesus’ blood “there is no forgiveness.” (Hebrews 11: 22 – NIV)

So today, I’ll share a version of the idea that there is nothing, nothing that can save us except the blood of Jesus. I pray that you will be more aware of His sacrifice as you read through the lyrics and listen to this melody. Remember, He died for you.

“Nothing But the Blood”

Your blood speaks a better word than all

The empty claims I’ve ever heard upon this earth.

It’s righteousness for me; it stands in my defense,

Jesus, it’s your blood.

And your cross, it testifies in grace;

Tells of the Father’s heart to make a way for us.

Now boldly we approach; not earthly confidence.

It’s only by your blood, your blood.

Chorus:

What can wash away our sins?

What can make us whole again?

Nothing but the blood,

Nothing but the blood of Jesus.

What can wash us pure as snow?

Welcomed as the friends of God?

Nothing but your blood,

Nothing but your blood, King Jesus.

Your blood, it speaks a better word than all

The empty claims I’ve ever heard upon this earth.

It’s righteousness for me; it stands in my defense.

Jesus, it’s your blood, your blood.[i]

(Chorus)

Click here to listen to The Swift sing their version of “Nothing But the Blood.”

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

Donna

[i] “Nothing But the Blood,” words and music by Matt Redman, Thank You Music/PRS, 2004.