Don't just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: 2 Cor 5:16-6:2, Isa 49:14-16, 53:4-6.

The cross is a powerful symbol of hope and healing for many people. But it was not always so. In biblical times, the cross was a symbol of oppression and cruelty. What happened on the cross of Christ to change its meaning? Paul explains the beautiful mystery of the cross in one of the most important verses in the New Testament – “For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” (2 Cor. 5:21 ESV) This is the Great Exchange. On the cross, Jesus took what belongs to us – sin and judgment. And he gave to us what belongs to him – a righteous standing before God.

Understanding the true meaning of the cross, and placing our faith in it, has a powerful effect on us. The cross:

Do you have a question about today's sermon? Email Randy Forrester ([email protected]).