The Cross of Christ

Devotional

“For the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.” 1 Corinthians 1:18

When we look at the cross, we see the work of God accomplished in Christ. It is the centre of our faith and the place where God’s plan for salvation was fulfilled. Jesus Christ, the spotless Lamb, offered himself to take away the sin of the world. He willingly gave himself up in obedience to the Father, accomplishing the redemption for all who trust in him (Ephesians 1:7).

Through his death, the guilt and power of sin were broken. Christ bore our sins in his body on the cross so that we might die to sin and live for righteousness. The debt that stood against us was cancelled, and the record of our sins was erased. The separation between God and humanity was removed when the veil of the temple was torn at his death (Matthew 27:51). We who were once far from God have been brought near through the blood of Christ (Ephesians 2:13).

The cross satisfied the righteousness of God. Sin was not ignored or overlooked; it was judged in Christ. God’s wrath against sin was fully borne by the Son so that those who believe in him may be justified. In this way, justice and mercy were perfectly fulfilled. Because of the cross, believers are accepted in Christ and stand in God’s favour. Through the death of Jesus, reconciliation was accomplished. Humanity’s estrangement from God ended. As Paul wrote, “While we were enemies, we were reconciled to God through the death of his Son” Romans 5:10. Those who trust in Christ are no longer alienated or condemned but restored to fellowship with the Father. Peace with God is not a distant hope but a present reality for all who are in Christ Jesus.

The cross achieved redemption. We were held captive by sin, but Christ paid the price required to set us free. He redeemed us from the curse of the law, from the guilt of sin, and from the slavery and dominion of sin. This redemption was purchased not with silver or gold but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish (1 Peter 1:18–19). Through his death, we are set free to live for righteousness, and our lives belong to God, who bought us with a price (1 Corinthians 6:20).

Christ’s death defeated the powers of darkness. On the cross, he disarmed principalities and authorities, triumphing over them openly (Colossians 2:15). The enemy lost his claim on believers because the record of sin against them was cancelled. Death and sin no longer have ultimate power over those who are in Christ, and eternal life is secured. At the centre of all these truths is substitution. Christ took the place of sinners. He bore the punishment we deserved so that we might receive the righteousness he alone possessed. He was pierced for our transgressions and crushed for our iniquities (Isaiah 53:5–6). The punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed from the sickness of sin and its eternal consequences. The just died for the unjust to bring us to God (1 Peter 3:18).

The cross demonstrates the love of God in action. It is the means by which we are forgiven, reconciled, redeemed, and justified. It shows the defeat of sin and the powers of darkness, securing life and eternal fellowship with the Father for all who believe. This is not a symbol of sorrow but the evidence of God’s saving work through Jesus Christ.

Oh Lord Jesus,

When I look at the cross where you died, I am humbled. I see the cost of my sin and the depth of your love. I look, and I receive your forgiveness. My record of wrongs has been erased, nailed to that very cross.

I look, and I receive your righteousness. I no longer stand in my own merit, but clothed in your perfection, fully accepted by the Father.

I look, and I receive my freedom. You have broken the chains of sin and death. I am redeemed, bought with a price, and I belong to you.

I look, and I receive new life. I have been crucified with you, and it is no longer I who live, but you who live in me. Help me to live each day by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.

Thank you for the cross. May I never look away. In your precious name, Amen.