The image of the cross can be found everywhere from church steeples and jewelry to bumper stickers, but many people do not understand what it means. The Cross is far more than a mere religious symbol; it is, in fact, the Christian faith’s central doctrine, without which our entire theology would crumble.

• What should “define” us as Christians?

    Think about the roles that define your life. Are you a mother, father, sister, brother, son, daughter, wife, or husband? If those roles were stripped away, would you define yourself by career, appearance, or perhaps a special God-given talent? The apostle Paul had all the right “credentials” for approval by his culture’s standards. (Philippians 3:5-6) Yet, despite his high position (humanly speaking), Paul declared that he had absolutely no reason to boast about anything except the Cross of Christ. (Galatians 6:14) He realized that the Cross was what changed his life to the very core, not only because it saved him from sin and death, but because it radically altered his day-to-day living. (Romans 1:16)

• What is the message of the Cross?

    Sin’s penalty is death. (Romans 6:23; Hebrews 9:22; Matthew 26:28) God the Father, knowing our helpless condition, sent His Son in human flesh to be crucified as a substitutionary sacrifice for the sins of mankind. (Leviticus 17:11) The Resurrection was God’s validation of Jesus Christ’s death as sufficient payment for all sin—past, present, and future. The message of the Cross is, therefore, one of hope for all people.

• For what reason was the Cross essential?

    The Cross was necessary in order for our sins to be forgiven. Most Christians recognize the side of the Cross that deals with their sins; however, many followers of Christ misunderstand the aspect that concerns the transformation of their lives. The apostle Paul realized that the dramatic changes which had taken place in his life were a direct result of the Cross. (Galatians 2:20) The same should be true of us, and we should be ready to give an account regarding our understanding of the Cross to anyone who might ask.
(1 Peter 3:15)

Questions for Reflection:

1. How do I view the Cross of Christ in my life?
2. Is the Cross a significant factor in how I define myself?