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I’m one of those strange preachers who end every sermon with Jesus on the cross.
And why not? What topic can I preach about that doesn’t find its pinnacle in Christ being crucified?
We see Jesus’ death referred to constantly throughout the New Testament. In the Gospels, of course there are four detailed descriptions as well as several predictions. At least ten times it’s preached in Acts to lost people. Paul seemed obsessed with Jesus’ death in his writings. In Hebrews, it’s a main theme. In Revelation, we see the Lamb receive the reward for his suffering.
Preacher, how often do you hold up Christ crucified before your congregation?
“For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and him crucified.” (1 Corinthians 2:2)
If I preach on marriage, who cares for his bride better than Christ does? When we were estranged—seemingly hopelessly—Jesus is the one who acted sacrificially to reconcile the relationship, setting an example for all husbands.
If the topic is missions, was there ever a greater Missionary than Jesus? He carried his Father’s message from the most beautiful and holy culture into a sin-soaked and dreadful culture, and he gave his life for the people he was trying to reach.
If I seek to inspire humility, Philippians 2 tells us that Jesus’ descent from Heaven all the way to death on the cross is the greatest possible demonstration of humility.
Whether the sermon is about generosity, faith, perseverance, commitment, holiness, faithfulness, or love, I can think of no better way to illustrate the message than with our Lord giving his life for our sins.
And with topics such as healing, addictions, rejection, shame, guilt, or depression, Jesus dying for us brings hope to the suffering.