Is the Cross Offensive or Comforting?

“And I, if I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all men to Myself.” (John 12:32)
 
Earlier this week the Supreme Court made the decision that a World War I memorial cross could continue to stand at the crossroad intersection in Bladensburg, Maryland. Many people wanted the cross removed because it is a “preeminent symbol of Christianity.” And they are correct; it is a symbol of victory over death.
 
The cross is the most significant dividing point in human history. Consider the following:
  • At the cross Satan was dethroned.
  • At the cross man’s sins were judged and atoned for.
  • At the cross the curse of sin was broken.
  • At the cross God was glorified.
  • At the cross old things pass away and all things can be made new.
The cross is the place where man’s eternity is determined. If you reject Jesus’ work at the cross you remain condemned in your sin. Paul wrote, “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,” (Romans 3:23).
 
If you, by faith, believe that Jesus died on the cross in your place and for your sin, then you will be saved. Paul continued to write, “being justified as a gift by His grace through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus; whom God displayed publicly as a propitiation (means to gain goodwill with God) in His blood through faith. This was to demonstrate His righteousness, because in the forbearance of God He passed over the sins previously committed;” (Romans 3:24–25, definition added).
 
Everyone has been and will be judged by how they view Jesus’ work on the cross. Satan, and, by extension, the world hates the cross and all that it stands for because it reminds them that Jesus has won. There is victory in Jesus because not only is He no longer on the cross but because He also did not remain in the grave. Now, because He lives, all who put their faith and trust in Him will also live.
 
What does the cross do for you? Do you find the cross offensive or comforting?
 
Pastor Cary Wacker

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