AM Scripture Reading: Hebrews 12.1-2

This Morning’s Sermon:

John Krueger

LOOK UP…TO THE CROSS OF JESUS

Introduction:

1. Mankind has a history of believing the unbelievable. (E.g., Exod. 32.1,4-6, 2 Tim. 4.3-4)

2. It is common to look down or to look around for answers, instead of looking up to the Lord. (Cf., Deut. 4.39; Psa. 57.9-11; Isa 45.18-19; Col. 3.1-2)

3. When we get mired down in the cares of this world, we need to look up to the Cross of Jesus.(Psa 69.13-16; Heb. 12.1-2)

1. JESUS FULFILLED GOD’S PROMISE ON THE CROSS

1. Jesus, the Son of God. (Isa 9.6)

2. Jesus, the judge of mankind. (Isa. 49.2; John 5.24-30; 12.48; 2 Cor. 5.10)

3. Jesus, the sacrifice for sins. (Isa 53.7, 11; 2 Cor. 5.21)

4. Jesus, resurrected & victorious (Isa. 25.8, 53.10; Psa 2.7; 1 Chron. 17.11-12; Mark 16.1-8)

2. MAN CRUCIFIED CHRIST ON THE CROSS

(Mark 15:1-15)

1. His betrayal was a part of God’s plan. (Zech. 11.12-13; Isa. 49.7; Psa. 2.1-2)
2. As was his crucifixion on the Cross (Isa. 53.12; Gen. 22.14; Psa. 22.8)
3. It would lead to repentance, salvation, and to the founding of Christ’s Church. (Acts 2)

3. SALVATION IS OPEN FOR ALL…ONLY THROUGH JESUS AND THE CROSS

1. Jesus calls us to him. (Matt. 11.28-30)

2. Even the most despicable sins of man can find forgiveness thru Christ. (Rom 7.21-25; Luke 23.39-43; Rom 8.31-32; cf., Rev. 1.7)

3. We must be “looking unto Jesus…” (Heb. 12.1-2).

Conclusion: Read 2 Pet 3.9 – Do not fall victim to the distractions of this world. Look up to Jesus for salvation.