The crucifixion of Jesus is considered a sacrifice because He willingly laid down His life for the salvation of humanity. In John 10:17-18, Jesus himself said, “The reason my Father loves me is that I lay down my life—only to take it up again. No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord.”

Even though Jesus knew He would be raised to life again, the act of sacrificially giving Himself on the cross was a demonstration of His great love for us and a fulfillment of God’s plan for redemption. It was through His sacrificial death and subsequent resurrection that He provided a way for us to be reconciled to God and receive the gift of eternal life.