The cross of Christ stands at the center of our faith, a symbol of sacrifice and redemption. In Jim’s sermon, we were reminded of the profound truth of what Jesus accomplished on the cross. He paid the debt He did not owe—ours—so that we could regain what was lost in the Garden of Eden: life, hope, joy, and peace.
Understanding the Cross
The cross is where Jesus fulfilled the promise of God, offering salvation to all who believe. Romans 5:8 declares, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” This act of love and sacrifice is the foundation of our hope and the reason we celebrate.
The cross is more than a historical event; it is the pivotal moment in God’s redemptive plan for humanity. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus conquered sin and death, offering us the gift of eternal life. This truth should fill us with gratitude and inspire us to live in a way that honors His sacrifice.
Living in Anticipation
As believers, we are called to live in anticipation of the hope of the Messiah. This means actively talking about Jesus and sharing who He is in our lives. 1 Peter 3:15 encourages us, “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.”
Living in anticipation involves a mindset of readiness and expectation. We are to be vigilant in our faith, looking forward to the return of Christ and the fulfillment of God’s promises. This anticipation should motivate us to live holy and godly lives, reflecting the character of Christ in all that we do.
Sharing the Good News
Our mission at Lakeview Christian Church is to share the good news of Jesus with others. This involves both words and actions. By living out our faith, we become a testament to the transformative power of the cross. Galatians 2:20 reminds us, “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.”
Sharing the gospel is an essential part of our Christian walk. It is the means by which others come to know the saving grace of Jesus Christ. As we share our testimonies and the message of the cross, we invite others to experience the same hope and transformation that we have found in Christ.
Conclusion: The cross is a gift that has changed our lives, and now we are called to share it so that it changes others. As we live out our mission to study, share, and serve, let’s keep the message of the cross at the forefront, allowing it to guide and inspire us in all we do.
At Lakeview Christian Church, we are committed to being the change as Jesus has changed us. By embracing the transformative power of the cross, we can impact our families, communities, and the world for the glory of God. Join us as we seek to live out our faith with purpose and passion.
