TITLE: What does the Cross Represent?
TEXT: John 12:27-33
PROPOSITION: The cross is a symbol of Christianity.
Introduction:
The cross is the focus of many passages in the NT.
It is not the cross itself wooden beams on which an execution takes place
It is Jesus who died on that cross that is the focus
I want you to notice what the cross represents.
THE CROSS OF CHRIST REPRESENTS:
God's Hatred for Sin
Sin separated man from God Isaiah 59:1-2
The penalty for sin is death Romans 3:23
Christ came to earth as the lamb of God to take away the sins of the world
Hebrews 2:9
1Peter 2:21-24
God's Love for Man
John 3:16
Matthew 1:21 Call his name Jesus, save his people from their sins
Mark 10:45 Son of man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life a ransom for many
The End of the Old Law of Moses
Colossians 2:14
First covenant was temporary Hebrews 8:7-13; 9:15-17
Galatians 3:13
The End of Racial and Ethnic Barriers
Ephesians 2:11-17
God is not a respecter of persons all who believe and obey are accepted
Acts 10:34-35
The Drawing Power of the Gospel
John 12:27-33
Cross is foundation of the gospel 1 Corinthians 15:1-4
Cross is message of God's power to save Romans 1:16
NT preachers did not use carnal means to draw men
Like in fishing the bait determines what you catch