The Cross at the Center
The cross stands at the heart of the Christian message. It reveals the depth of God's love and the cost He was willing to pay to rescue humanity from sin. Scripture declares, "But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8). Jesus willingly took upon Himself the penalty our sins deserved, satisfying justice and offering mercy through His sacrifice.
This act of love fulfills ancient prophecy. "He was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed" (Isaiah 53:5). At the cross, justice and grace meet—God does not ignore sin but fully addresses it through His Son, offering complete forgiveness to all who believe.
The message of the cross is both a challenge and an invitation. "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). It calls for humility and gratitude, reminding believers that salvation is a gift, not something earned. Paul expressed this personal truth when he wrote, "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me" (Galatians 2:20).
Every transformed life bears witness to the power of the cross. "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" (2 Corinthians 5:17). Through Jesus' death and resurrection, believers receive new life, restored relationship with God, and lasting hope that shapes their daily walk.
Step 3 – Believe that Christ died to pay the penalty for your sin, demonstrating God's perfect love.
Having seen how Jesus' sacrifice made forgiveness possible, we now turn to the promise that comes from His victory—God's offer of eternal life to all who believe.