The Cross of Christ: Study Guide Edition

Description

An exceptional and comprehensive study of the substitutionary atonement of Jesus Christ in Christian theology.

I. Approaching the Cross
The Centrality of the Cross: Explores the significance of the cross in Jesus’ teaching, the New Testament, and church history.

Why Did Christ Die?: Examines the reasons behind Jesus’ crucifixion, emphasizing his voluntary sacrifice for sinners.

Looking Below the Surface: Investigates deeper theological implications, including human sinfulness and God’s holiness, which necessitated the cross.

II. The Heart of the Cross
The Problem of Forgiveness: Discusses why forgiveness is complex for God due to his holiness and justice.

Satisfaction for Sin: Explains how Jesus’ death satisfies God’s holy love and justice, rejecting inadequate theories such as satisfaction to Satan or the Law.

The Self-Substitution of God: Highlights how God in Christ serves as a substitute for humanity, addressing sin and alienation from God.

III. The Achievement of the Cross
The Salvation of Sinners: Details key doctrines such as propitiation, redemption, justification, and reconciliation.

The Revelation of God: Shows how the cross reveals God’s justice, love, and glory in perfect harmony.

The Conquest of Evil: Explores how Jesus’ victory on the cross frees humanity from wrath, sin, death, and evil powers.

IV. Living Under the Cross
The Community of Celebration: Discusses worship and the Lord’s Supper as celebrations of Christ’s finished work on the cross.

Self-Understanding and Self-Giving: Encourages Christians to view themselves as redeemed sinners called to serve others sacrificially.

Loving Our Enemies: Examines how the cross empowers believers to love enemies and find meaning in suffering.

Suffering and Glory: Relates the cross to Christian discipleship, suffering, and hope for future glory.

Conclusion
The Pervasive Influence of the Cross: Summarizes how the cross transforms theology and life, using themes from Galatians to review its impact on Christian faith and practice.