Reflections on the Cross

For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes—the Jew first and also the Gentile. (Romans 1:16)

Salvation means deliverance from the power and effects of sin. Through the cross, we receive redemption - we were bought back. Christ was the propitiation for our sins - which means he bore the full wrath of God on our behalf. And we were justified - which means we were made righteous, and able to have relationship with God. The Good News of Jesus is about a salvation that is complete and thorough. When we come to Christ, we are saved. 100%.

Salvation is one of the central messages of the Bible. In Scripture, we have God’s Word revealing Himself, and His design for the human race - salvation.

Here are some of the descriptors for salvation found within scripture:

• It is of God, and is the purpose of God

• God is willing that all receive salvation

• It is by Christ, and Christ alone

• It is not by works, but by grace

• It includes deliverance from sin, uncleanness, the devil, wrath, this present evil world, enemies, and eternal death

• It is received through faith in, and confession of, Christ

• Salvation is great, glorious, to the uttermost, eternal, and from generation to generation

• The whole earth shall see the salvation of God

• It is illustrated by a rock, a horn, a tower, a helmet, a shield, a lamp, a cup, clothing, wells, walls and bulwarks, chariots, a victory

As it says in 1 Corinthians 6:2:
“Today is the day of salvation.”

Today. Now. No waiting or working, worrying or wrestling required. Just receive the most magnificent gift ever conceived - salvation.

Today’s prayer is especially for you if you are ready to say ‘Yes’.

Prayer: Lord, thank you for salvation. I say out loud, “Jesus is Lord!” and believe in my heart that God raised him from the dead. I receive your salvation, Lord. I choose to follow you, Jesus. Thank you for saving me. Amen.

Sources:
Torrey, R. A. (1897). The New Topical Text Book: A Scripture Text Book for the Use of Ministers, Teachers, and All Christian Workers (New, revised and enlarged edition, p. 233). Chicago; New York; Toronto: Fleming H. Revell.

Tyndale House Publishers. (2013). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Publishers.