The Glorious Cross - Galatians 6:14

"But God forbid that I should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world."

 Michael Card called the cross of Jesus Christ "the focal point of history."  It is beyond odd that in this text, Paul talks about "boasting in the cross."  From the perspective of a person in the first century, the cross was anything but glorious.  It was a symbol of despair and hopelessness, but God transformed it into our only hope.  Here are some lessons from the cross.

1. The Cross Challenges Us.

            - Seriousness of sin - Isaiah 53:6, Romans 6:23

            - Sole way of Salvation - John 14:6, Acts 4:12, 17:31

2. The Cross Changes Us.

            - It changes our destiny, John 14:1-3

            - It changes our desire, 2 Cor. 5:17, John 3:21

3. The Cross Compels Us.

            - To live a God-centered life, 2 Cor. 5:14-15

            - To live a Gospel-centered life, Acts 1:8, Matthew 28:18-20

In a great twist of irony, a cruel instrument of torture and death became the key to salvation, hope and life.