The Power of the Cross

By Charles Stanley

Jesus’ determination to endure the cross won salvation for every person who wants to know God.

“The message of the cross is foolish to those who are headed for destruction! But we who are being saved know it is the very power of God.” 1 Corinthians 1:18 (NLT)

The scene of the cross is a paradox. It demonstrates the power of God in what appears to be the weakest moment of His Son’s life. With hands and feet nailed to rough wood, Jesus looked helpless.

Strength isn’t always shown in dramatic ways; at times it’s seen in determined endurance. What power held Jesus on the cross, when all authority in heaven and on earth was His (Matthew 28:18)? Divine love is what kept Him there. With our eternal destiny at stake, He hung on the cross until our salvation was secured.

But the power of the cross didn’t end when Jesus died. His death thrust open the door of salvation to all people—those who accept it by faith are forgiven for every sin and ensured a place in heaven.

Yet even after salvation, the power of the cross continues in believers’ lives. Millions of people have been transformed as a result of the Savior’s victory over sin and death. He sets us free from sinful habits and addictions, empowering us to live victoriously in His righteousness.

Have you let the cross do its work in your life? The Lord does not force its benefits on anyone. Rather, He offers them freely to all who will believe in Him and walk in His ways. With each step of faith that we take, the mighty work of God in us increases.