The Old Rugged Cross

THE OLD RUGGED CROSS

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Galatians 6:14

"But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world."

Supporting Texts: Isaiah 53:5, 1 Corinthians 1:18, Colossians 2:14, Philippians 2:8, 1 Peter 2:24

INTRODUCTION

The cross is the central symbol of the Christian faith. It represents the greatest sacrifice ever made—Jesus Christ laying down His life for the salvation of mankind. The cross was a place of suffering, yet it became the source of our victory. The old rugged cross is not just a relic of history; it carries deep spiritual significance for every believer today.

1. THE CROSS WAS A PLACE OF SUFFERING AND SHAME

Jesus endured the cross for our redemption.

a) A Symbol of Humiliation

Crucifixion was the most disgraceful form of execution (Philippians 2:8).

b) The Weight of Sin Was Upon Him

Jesus carried the burden of our sins (Isaiah 53:5).

c) He Was Forsaken for Our Sake

Jesus cried, "My God, My God, why hast Thou forsaken Me?" (Matthew 27:46).

d) He Bore Our Sickness and Pain

The stripes on His body brought healing (1 Peter 2:24).

e) Biblical Example:

The two thieves crucified alongside Jesus, yet only one received salvation (Luke 23:39-43).

2. THE CROSS IS A PLACE OF FORGIVENESS AND REDEMPTION

At the cross, our sins were erased, and our debt was paid.

a) The Blood of Jesus Cleanses All Sin

Without the shedding of blood, there is no remission of sin (Hebrews 9:22).

b) The Cross Brought Reconciliation

Jesus reconciled us to God (Colossians 1:20).

c) The Veil Was Torn in Two

The barrier between God and man was removed (Matthew 27:51).

d) The Curse of the Law Was Broken

Jesus became a curse for us (Galatians 3:13).

e) Biblical Example:

The Roman centurion who witnessed the crucifixion declared, "Truly this was the Son of God!" (Matthew 27:54).

3. THE CROSS IS A PLACE OF POWER AND VICTORY

What seemed like defeat became the greatest victory.

a) The Cross Defeated Satan's Power

Jesus made a public spectacle of principalities and powers (Colossians 2:15).

b) Death Lost Its Sting

Through His death, Jesus conquered the power of the grave (1 Corinthians 15:55-57).

c) We Have Access to Resurrection Power

Just as Jesus rose, we will also rise (Romans 8:11).

d) The Cross is the Wisdom and Power of God

What seemed like foolishness is divine wisdom (1 Corinthians 1:18).

e) Biblical Example:

The disciples were scattered at the crucifixion, but after the resurrection, they boldly preached Christ (Acts 4:33).

4. THE CROSS CALLS US TO A LIFE OF TOTAL SURRENDER

To follow Christ, we must embrace the cross.

a) We Must Deny Ourselves

Jesus said, "Take up your cross and follow Me" (Luke 9:23).

b) We Must Die to the World

The cross separates us from worldly desires (Galatians 6:14).

c) The Cross is a Mark of True Discipleship

Those who suffer with Him will reign with Him (2 Timothy 2:12).

d) We Must Preach the Message of the Cross

The gospel is incomplete without the cross (1 Corinthians 2:2).

e) Biblical Example:

Paul counted all things as loss for the sake of Christ (Philippians 3:7-8).

5. THE CROSS GUARANTEES OUR ETERNAL HOPE

Through the cross, we have the promise of eternal life.

a) Jesus' Death Opened the Door to Heaven

He is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6).

b) The Cross is the Guarantee of Our Salvation

We are saved by faith in His sacrifice (Ephesians 2:8-9).

c) We Will Share in His Glory

If we suffer with Him, we will be glorified with Him (Romans 8:17).

d) Our Names Are Written in the Book of Life

Those who trust in the cross will never be lost (Revelation 3:5).

e) Biblical Example:

The thief on the cross was promised paradise with Christ (Luke 23:43).

CONCLUSION

The old rugged cross is more than a symbol—it is the foundation of our faith. It reminds us of the price Jesus paid, the power we have through His sacrifice, and the eternal hope we possess. Never take the cross for granted! Hold onto it, preach it, and live by its power.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Father, thank You for the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross.

2. Lord, let the power of the cross manifest in my life.

3. Every sin in my life, be washed away by the blood of Jesus.

4. I receive total victory over sin, sickness, and satanic attacks.

5. Lord, help me to take up my cross and follow You daily.

6. Every curse over my life is broken by the cross of Christ.

7. Lord, let my life reflect the message of the cross.

8. I declare that I am crucified with Christ, and I live for Him.

9. Let the message of the cross be preached through my life.

10. Thank You, Lord, for the hope of eternal life through the cross.