I believe God insists on such restraint because no pyrotechnic displays of omnipotence will achieve the response he desires. Although power can force obedience, only love can summon a response of love, which is the one thing God wants from us and the reason he created us. “I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all men to myself,” Jesus said. In case we miss the point John adds, “He said this to show the kind of death he was going to die.” God’s nature is self-giving; he bases his appeal on sacrificial love.
–Philip Yancey
All-Powerful God could have crushed all those who stood against Jesus in less than an instant. This One who spoke billions of fiery stars into existence could have kept Jesus from suffering on the cross. But instead of crushing men with His power to force their obedience, He poured out His love on the cross – drawing many of us to Himself. Thank You God… that You appeal to us through sacrificial love.