How do you see the cross as we near Easter?

For many, of whom I have often told you and now tell you even with tears, walk as enemies of the cross of Christ. (Philippians 3:18 ESV)

With Easter right around the corner, if you asked the average person on the street what they think of Jesus, the majority of responses would be positive.  Most people would say that he was a good teacher that taught good morals.  But, mention the cross of Christ and all that it entails, you will likely receive a different response.  Paul told the church in Philippi that there are people who are enemies of the cross of Christ. They may like Jesus and what they perceive to be his teachings, yet they don’t like what comes with the cross.  As we read through the Bible we learn a lot about the cross of Christ.

1. Paul wrote that it is foolishness to those that are perishing (1 Corinthians 1:18).  People just don’t get it when they are enemies of the cross.

2. Jesus said that we must deny ourselves and take up our cross and follow him (Matthew 16:24). The cross is an instrument of death, therefore we must die to ourselves and our passions in order to follow Jesus.  Enemies of the cross don’t like the idea of not being able to do whatever they want.

3. The cross brings peace to all things through forgiveness of sins (Colossians 1:20-22).  In order to embrace the cross, you must also admit your sinfulness and then repent of it.

Just as Paul was talking to the church in Philippi, he is also talking to us today.  The Gospel, the good news, is that our sins are forgiven because of the work of Jesus on the cross.  Does the gospel your church preaches talk of sin and the cross of Christ?  Or, does it talk of simply deciding you want heaven and a better life?

Examine your life today and the impact of the cross of Christ in your life.