The Cross: Where love and justice meet

                                                       

Before we celebrate the resurrection, we must understand the cross.

Romans 5:8 says,

“But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

The cross reminds us of the cost of sin. Jesus, the only perfect man, took our place. He bore the punishment that we deserved. That’s justice.

But it was also the greatest act of love. He didn’t have to do it—He chose to. He chose to go to the cross because of His deep love for you and me.

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2. The Empty Tomb: Death Has Been Defeated

Matthew 28:6 tells us:

“He is not here; He has risen, just as He said!”

This is the moment that changed everything. Jesus didn’t stay in the grave. The resurrection is proof that:

• Jesus is who He claimed to be—the Son of God.

• Sin and death no longer have the final say.

• We now have eternal life through Him.

1 Corinthians 15:17 says,

“If Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins.”
But He was raised—so our faith is not in vain!

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3. What Easter Means for Us Today

The real meaning of Easter isn’t just a historical event—it’s a living hope (1 Peter 1:3).

Because of Easter:

• We are forgiven.

• We are free from guilt and shame.

• We have a new life.

• We have the hope of eternity.

Romans 6:4 says,

“Just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.”

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Easter calls us to respond not just with celebration, but with surrender.

• Have you accepted what Jesus did for you on the cross?

• Are you living in the power of the resurrection?

Let’s not leave Jesus in the tomb or only remember Him on Easter. Let’s live every day in the light of His victory.

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Call to Action / Prayer

If you’ve never made the decision to follow Jesus, today is the perfect day. He died for your sins, rose again, and is offering you new life.

Let’s pray together:

“Jesus, thank You for the cross. Thank you for rising again. I believe you are alive and that you love me. Forgive my sins, and give me a new life. Help me follow You from this day forward. Amen.”