What does the cross truly represent to you? Dr. Stanley takes a look back on the history of crucifixions and the reasoning behind Christ's death, reminding us that the cross represents the salvation that was bought by our Savior.
Sermon Outline
The crucifixion can be painful to contemplate. But the cross is an extraordinary gift that represents the fulfillment of God’s plan to save us. In today’s message, Dr. Stanley explores the doctrine and meaning behind this symbol of our faith.
Key Passage: Galatians 6:14
Supporting Passages: Psalm 103:19; Ezekiel 18:20; Mark 15:34; Acts 2:22-24; Romans 3:23-26; 1 Corinthians 1:18; Galatians 2:20; 1 Peter 1:18-20; 1 Peter 2:24
The cross is a symbol commonly seen today. But what does it signify? It is not a good luck charm but an object with a profound message.
► “The crucifixion is something God planned and carried out in Jesus’ life.”
The cross was …
The only thing in which Paul would boast (Gal. 6:14).
A sign of suffering and death in the first century.
Destined to become a universal symbol of the Christian faith.
Foolishness to those who were perishing (1 Cor. 1:18).
God’s choice, despite His power to prevent it (Ps. 103:19).
The cross is ...
A symbol of salvation and life eternal.
Part of God’s plan (Acts 2:22-24).
► “How can God remain holy and declare us not guilty? There’s only one answer to that question.”
The cross was necessary because …
We all have sinned (Rom. 3:23).
We need God to declare us “not guilty” (v. 24).
It brought us redemption through God’s saving grace (v. 24).
Our redemption could be found only in Christ (v. 24).
It was the means by which Jesus sacrificed Himself and provided His blood to save us (v. 25).
It replaced the Old Testament sacrificial system that foreshadowed Jesus (v. 25).
Through it, God is shown to be righteous, just, and forgiving (v. 26).
The cross was God’s solution for our sin problem.
Motivated by love, the Father sent Jesus by means of the incarnation.
Jesus, like the Old Testament animals sacrificed, was spotless (1 Pet. 1:18-20).
Our Lord bore our sins on the cross (1 Pet. 2:24).
The crucifixion means our souls no longer have to die (Ezek. 18:20).
On the cross, the work of substitution and atonement was accomplished.
God sent His Son Jesus to be our substitute and to pay the penalty for our sin.
Jesus experienced our punishment (Mark 15:34).
We must remember Jesus’ atonement was perfect and complete. Our good works can neither earn nor add to our salvation.
► “How could I hold back from surrendering anything when He gave everything and denied Himself totally for me?”
To respond to the cross …
Ask Jesus for forgiveness and trust Him as your personal Savior.
Surrender your life to Him.
Serve Him and tell others about what He’s done for you.
Live by faith (Gal. 2:20).
After Watching
What does the cross mean to you? Spend some time contemplating it, perhaps journaling to help focus your thoughts.
Why do you think we’re tempted to replace Jesus’ atoning sacrifice on the cross with our own good works?
