The Cross

What it means

Seven centuries before Calvary, Isaiah writes that he was pierced for our transgressions and crushed for our iniquities, that the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and that by his wounds we are healed. Peter and Philip both read these words as speaking of Jesus.

Why every Christian should know it

It is the Old Testament's plainest description of substitution, and it shows the cross was planned rather than improvised.

Cross references

• 1 Peter 2:24
• Acts 8:32-35
• 2 Corinthians 5:21
• Romans 4:25

Pray it back

Lord, the punishment that brought me peace fell on you. I receive that peace instead of trying to earn it.

What it means

Paul says he was crucified with Christ, and the life he now lives he lives by faith in the Son of God who loved him and gave himself for him.

Why every Christian should know it

It moves the cross from history into your own identity. The Christian life is Christ living in a person who has died to self rule.

Cross references

• Romans 6:6
• Philippians 1:21
• Colossians 3:3

Pray it back

Lord Jesus, you loved me and gave yourself for me. Live your life in me today.

What it means

Jesus says it is finished, bows his head, and gives up his spirit. The word he uses was written on paid debts.

Why every Christian should know it

Three words end religion as a payment plan. Nothing remains to be added to what Christ completed.

Cross references

• Hebrews 10:12-14
• Colossians 2:14
• Romans 8:1

Pray it back

Father, the work is finished. Stop me from trying to finish what your Son completed.

What it means

He carried our sins in his body on the tree so that we might die to sin and live to righteousness.

Why every Christian should know it

It ties forgiveness to holiness. The cross does not only clear the record, it breaks the reign of sin in a life.

Cross references

• Romans 6:11
• Isaiah 53:6
• Titus 2:14

Pray it back

Lord, you bore my sin so I could be finished with it. Give me the will to live to righteousness today.