The Message Of The Cross – Part 1
(A Deep and Transformational Message on the Cross)
Introduction: Why is the message of the cross important?
The message of the cross is central to the Christian faith. It is on the cross that Jesus Christ gave his life for our sins, offering us salvation, grace, and new life. However, this message is not just a religious or historical event; it is a message that changes the lives of every person.
In this article, we will discuss in depth what the message of the cross is, its historical and spiritual significance , its role in the Bible , the relationship between sin, grace, and salvation , and its practical application in our lives .
1. What is the message of the cross?
The message of the cross refers to the truth that salvation for humanity is possible through the sacrifice and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The Bible says:
“For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.” (1 Corinthians 1:18)
The message of the cross teaches us:
✔ Love: God loved the world so much that he gave his only Son (John 3:16).
✔ Sacrifice: Jesus was innocent, but he died for sinners (Romans 5:8).
✔ Grace and forgiveness: Jesus’ death on the cross has removed our sins (Ephesians 1:7).
✔ Victory: Despite dying on the cross, Jesus rose from the dead on the third day and defeated death (1 Corinthians 15:3-4).
2. The historical and spiritual significance of the cross
(a) Historically, the Crucifixion:
The death of Jesus Christ took place in Jerusalem during the Roman Empire around 30-33 AD. At that time, crucifixion was the method of death used for serious criminals. But Jesus was innocent, he was falsely accused, beaten, and crucified.
(b) Spiritual meaning of the cross:
✔ The price of sin has been paid: “For the wages of sin is death…” (Romans 6:23).
✔ Reconciliation with God: Sin had broken the relationship between man and God, but Jesus opened the way (2 Corinthians 5:18-19).
✔ Our new life: Jesus said, “Whoever believes in me has eternal life” (John 11:25).
3. The role of the cross in the Bible
The Bible presents the message of the cross deeply in both the Old and New Testaments.
✔ Foreshadowing in the Old Testament:
- Sacrificial System: The Israelites offered animal sacrifices, which foreshadowed Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice (Leviticus 17:11).
- The Sacrifice of Isaac (Primitive Image): When Abraham was about to sacrifice Isaac, God provided a ram instead (Genesis 22:13-14).
- Passover Lesson: The Israelites applied the blood of an innocent lamb to their doorposts for deliverance from Egypt (Exodus 12:13).
✔ Fulfillment of the Cross in the New Testament :
- Jesus is the Lamb of God: “Jesus is the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world” (John 1:29).
- Sins forgiven: “He was wounded for our transgressions” (Isaiah 53:5).
- The way of salvation: “Salvation is possible only through Jesus” (Acts 4:12).
4. The relationship between sin, grace, and salvation
(a) Sin:
Mankind is fallen into sin. Sin entered the world because of the disobedience of Adam and Eve (Romans 3:23).
(b) Grace:
God’s grace was revealed on the cross. We do not deserve salvation, but God’s love has given it to us freely (Ephesians 2:8-9).
(c) Salvation:
✔ Forgiveness of sins (1 John 1:9)
✔ Promise of eternal life (John 3:16)
✔ Restoration of relationship with God (Romans 5:1)
5. The power to change lives
The message of the cross can change a person’s life.
✔ Spiritual resurrection: The beginning of a new life (2 Corinthians 5:17).
✔ Peace and hope: “Reconciliation has been made through the cross” (Colossians 1:20).
✔ Inspiration for living a holy life: “Be holy, because I am holy” (1 Peter 1:16).
✔ Source of joy: Joy in Christ because of the cross (Romans 15:13).
6. Applying the message of the cross to practical life
✔ Standing firm in faith: trusting in the cross even in hardship (Philippians 4:13).
✔ Living in grace: forgiving others, showing love (Ephesians 4:32).
✔ Sharing the message of salvation: preaching the gospel (Matthew 28:19-20).
✔ Walking in the power of God: winning spiritual warfare (Ephesians 6:10-18).
Conclusion: The message of the cross is a message of conversion.
The message of the cross is a message of love, sacrifice, forgiveness, salvation, and victory. It offers hope to the world.
“You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” (John 8:32)
What is your decision now? Do you want to accept the message of the cross into your life?
✝ Surrender your life to Jesus today!
