How do we know that Jesus was not a victim but actively submitted to God's will?

In understanding the nature of Christ's sacrifice, it is crucial to recognize that He was not merely a victim of circumstances or the whims of men. Jesus indicated in John 10:18, 'No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord.' This illustrates His active role in submitting to the Father's will, rather than being forced into His death. Furthermore, throughout the New Testament, we see prophecies from the Old Testament, such as those in Isaiah 53, that articulated the suffering the Messiah would endure for the redemption of His people. In Matthew 17:22-23, Jesus explicitly foretells His betrayal, suffering, and resurrection, showing that His death was according to divine plan. Thus, it was His obedience to God's will that culminated in our redemption.