Have you ever wondered why such great emphasis is placed on the cross? Based on Galatians 6:14, this message explores why the cross is the heart of what Christians believe, the different roles the cross plays in people's lives, and how the apostle Paul boasted in the cross.
Sermon Outline
Why We Believe
The cross is at the heart of our life as a Christian. Today’s sermon focuses on this often misunderstood symbol—the center of the gospel message and the place where our victory is found.
Key Passage: Galatians 6:14
To outsiders, the cross seems like a negative thing to emphasize (1 Cor. 1:23), but Paul said he would boast in nothing else (Gal. 6:14). It’s essential to understand why it is central to our faith.
The cross holds a preeminent place in the New Testament. The first four books all lead to it. They tell us:
When Jesus died on the cross, He satisfied God’s requirement of sacrifice to pay for sin.
Only Jesus could do this, because He alone was without sin.
Some verses show the centrality of the cross without using the word. For instance, read Matthew 16:21, Mark 10:45, Luke 2:33-35, and John 1:28-29.
By the cross of the Lord Jesus Christ, we experience spiritual liberty:
There is no freedom without fixing our sin problem, which condemns us to death.
God made provision for our salvation by coming into the world in the person of Jesus.
On the cross, Jesus laid down His life for us so we could be forgiven.
Belief in Him liberates us from the penalty of sin.
Everything we need is provided for us because of the cross.
Through it, God meets all our needs. He gifts us with the godly desires of our heart, a relationship with Him, the privilege of prayer, and the indwelling Holy Spirit.
When Paul began to understand this, the world lost its appeal. In his words, it “was crucified to [him]” (Gal. 6:14).
The cross is...A mirror that reveals.
It shows us our unworthiness (1 Peter 2:24).
It reflects God’s love, goodness, mercy, kindness, and forgiveness.
The means of our salvation.
Jesus was not merely a teacher or healer. He was the Savior; we depend on Him for salvation (Acts 16:31).
A magnet to draw all people to Christ.
Through it, Jesus draws sinners to God (John 12:32).
It symbolizes God’s power to forgive and liberate.
A model to emulate.
Through it, Jesus modeled sacrificial love.
His example should lead us to love one another (John 13:35).
After Watching
Consider these thoughts and questions in response to the sermon:
How do you view the cross? What can you tell others to help them understand it is not foolishness but life itself?
The cross has liberated you. How has experiencing the freedom Jesus offers changed your life?
How can you best demonstrate Christ’s sacrificial love to someone He has placed in your sphere of influence?
