The cross, in Jesus’ day, was the worst form of death. The Romans had perfected the execution. It was so heinous that Roman citizens were not allowed to be crucified, and it was a strong deterrent to everyone else. Only criminals, like traitors or insurrectionists, were hung on a cross. Jesus shows you the power of the cross by willingly laying down his life and being the perfect substitute sacrifice for your sins.
1 Corinthians 1:18
“For the word of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.”
Fools for Thinking that Way
In Paul’s day, people struggle with the message and meaning of the cross. “Why would someone purposely die for another’s sin?” “The cross is too graphic. I don’t want to consider it.” Today, the cross is foolish because everyone thinks they are good and don’t need Jesus to die for their sins. They look at Christians as fools for following such beliefs. Paul tells us that those who are perishing because of their unbelief will often think this way.
Power to Those Who See It
To those who have realized their need for salvation from their sins, the cross is the power of God. They look at that tree that Jesus was hung on and see their sins forgiven and transforming new life being placed within. The cross shows love, but it also shows power over this world and the dark forces controlling it. Satan thought he was achieving a victory by killing Jesus, but God turned the tables and used it for His good. Jesus took the worst the world could throw at Him, and He came out victorious.
The Power of the Cross
Are you perishing out of foolish unbelief, or has the power of the cross saved you? All of us need a savior because none of us are good enough to earn our way into heaven. Jesus made us right in God’s eyes and opened the door to heaven through his death on the cross. When people put their faith in Jesus, the power of God transforms us into people.