A Cross-Centered Life, Part 1:The Cross vs. Self

Wendy Powell, Community Outreach Pastor

What does the cross mean to you?

John 1:14

The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. 

John 1:18

No one has ever seen God, but the one and only Son, who is himself God and is in closest relationship with the Father, has made him known.

The cross is a point of decision where faith and repentance lead us to surrender.

Ephesians 4:22-24

You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.

Galatians 2:20

 I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.

The ongoing redemptive work of the cross is to refine us, heal us, sanctify us, mature us.

Hebrews 5:12-14

In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God’s word all over again. You need milk, not solid food! Anyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness. But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil.

Galatians 5:13 (NLT)

For you have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and sisters. But don’t use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature. Instead, use your freedom to serve one another in love. 

Self-Centered Life vs. Cross-Centered Life

Our schedule vs. Divine interruptions

Our plans vs. Inconvenient needs of others

My money, my bills vs. Planned, prioritized generosity

Creature comforts vs. Going without to bless others

Comfortable social distance vs. Connecting with a stranger

Apathy vs. Choosing to see, to care, to seek God

My need to be right vs. Perspective of others

Idol of entertainment vs. Time & attention caring for others

Holding grudges vs. Forgiveness

Hurry and worry vs. Peaceful, trusting presence

Centered on Christ, our lives should find balance and stability.