THE CENTERPIECE 1 Corinthians 2:1-2
Preamble
Yes, Easter Sunday has come and gone. But the reality of Jesus’ death and resurrection remains. I hope you know that Easter is never really over and its benefits transcend a few designated days in a year. The crucifixion of Christ is the singular defining event that forever changed human history. We are saved by the cross; we are being saved by the cross; and we will be spared from Gods’ wrath only by the cross.
Apostle Paul had a very comprehensive understanding of the crucifixion of Christ. He gave Jesus and His crucifixion the most prominent place in this life and ministry. He exalted Jesus’ crucifixion far above all other issues.
For an average person, Jesus’ death on the cross is a very narrow story. But on a closer look, it’s very broad, high, and deep. I have the leading to share some truths with you about the crucifixion of Jesus from Paul’s teachings in 1 Corinthians 2:1-2.
Jesus Christ and Him Crucified
Apostle Paul testified that he stepped on the shores of the city of Corinth with a personal resolution. He met with the citizens of that city not with polished speeches and latest philosophy. Rather, though well educated, Paul presented the Gospel to the Corinthians as raw as possible. He didn’t garnish the message with any form of rhetoric.
The focal point of Paul’s message among the Corinthians was Jesus and Him crucified. He presented the crucified Christ to them as the ultimate solution to man’s ultimate problem (sin). He preached Christ on the Cross, hung up between heaven and earth, rejected by the Jews, despised by the Greeks and crucified by the Romans. Paul kept the cross at the forefront. He made the cross the centerpiece of his preaching. He was persuaded that Christ is everything that needs to be known by every man. He believed that the knowledge of Christ’s crucifixion is the liberating force for any man.
Still the Centerpiece
Though there are many embellishments to the preaching of the Gospel in our days, the crucifixion of Christ remains irreplaceable. Everybody needs the Cross of Christ. The Cross is still the cure for man’s greatest problem, sin. It was on the Cross, through the Cross, and by the Cross that Jesus Christ perfected our redemption, and made us fit for eternity with God.
Beloved, the crucifixion of Christ is the starting point of an eternal relationship with God. When Jesus was hung on the cross, He waved to God with one hand and used the second hand to wave to you. God responded immediately. The meeting point for you to be reconciled to God is the cross. Have you responded to Jesus’ beckoning? The forgiveness of your sins is only in the Cross. Your glory and greatness can only be achieved in the Cross. Your victory over Satan, sin, and death is in the Cross.