Introduction
5 Lessons We Can Learn from the Cross
The cross is the central symbol of Christianity—more than a religious emblem, it represents a profound message of sacrifice, redemption, and love. Reflecting on the cross provides deep spiritual insight and moral guidance for our daily lives. In this article, we explore five powerful lessons we can learn from the cross and how they can transform our walk with God and our relationships with others..
5 Lessons We Can Learn from the Cross
1. Lesson of Sacrificial Love
“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” – John 15:13
The cross reminds us that true love is sacrificial. Jesus willingly gave His life to save humanity, even when we were undeserving.
Tip: Practice sacrificial love in daily life—help others without expecting anything in return.
Benefit: Builds stronger, more meaningful relationships and reflects Christ-like love to the world.
2. Lesson of Forgiveness
“Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” – Luke 23:34
Jesus forgave those who crucified Him, setting an unmatched example of mercy and grace.
Tip: Let go of grudges and forgive others, even when it’s hard.
Benefit: Forgiveness heals emotional wounds and frees you from bitterness.
3. Lesson of Obedience
“He humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!” – Philippians 2:8
Jesus submitted to the Father’s will, even when it led to suffering. His obedience was complete and unwavering.
Tip: Trust God’s plan even when you don’t fully understand it.
Benefit: Obedience brings peace, purpose, and divine favor.
4. Lesson of Humility
The cross was a symbol of shame, yet Jesus endured it with humility, placing God’s purpose above His own glory.
Tip: Serve others with humility, and avoid seeking recognition.
Benefit: Humility draws people closer and aligns us with God’s heart.
5. Lesson of Hope and Resurrection
The cross was not the end. Jesus rose again, proving that death was defeated and hope remains eternal.
Tip: Cling to hope in hard times, knowing that God’s power is greater than any struggle.
Benefit: Encourages resilience and joy amid trials.
Suggestions to Apply the Cross in Daily Life
Applying the cross in daily life means living out the meaning of Jesus’ sacrifice—dying to self and embracing a life of love, humility, and obedience. Here are some practical and spiritual suggestions to apply the cross in daily life:
1. Embrace Self-Denial
- Scripture: “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.” – Luke 9:23
- Application: Choose God’s will over your own desires. Practice fasting, let go of selfish ambitions, and serve others sacrificially.
2. Forgive as Christ Forgave
- Reflect on the cross and forgive those who hurt you, even when it’s difficult.
- Action: Release grudges, pray for your enemies, and seek reconciliation.
3. Show Sacrificial Love
- Love not just with words but with actions that cost you something—your time, money, or comfort.
- Example: Help someone in need, visit the sick, or listen patiently to a friend in distress.
4. Live with Humility
- The cross humbles our pride. Recognize that everything you have is by grace.
- Practice: Avoid boasting, acknowledge your weaknesses, and elevate others.
5. Stand for Truth in a Fallen World
- Like Jesus carried His cross through ridicule, you may be mocked for your faith.
- Encouragement: Be courageous in your convictions, even when unpopular.
6. Cultivate a Heart of Gratitude
- Let the cross remind you daily of God’s love and mercy.
- Discipline: Start or end each day thanking God for Christ’s sacrifice.
7. Repent Daily
- The cross calls us to turn from sin continually.
- Tip: Examine your heart each day, confess your sins, and receive God’s cleansing.
8. Serve Others with Joy
- Jesus gave His life to serve; we too should serve without expecting rewards.
- Application: Volunteer, serve in church, or do unseen acts of kindness.
9. Live with an Eternal Perspective
- The cross points to eternity. Let that guide your choices and priorities.
- Mindset: Invest in what lasts—faith, people, and God’s kingdom.
10. Share the Message of the Cross
- Tell others about what Jesus did on the cross for them.
- Approach: Share your testimony or encourage others with Scripture and love.
To apply the cross in daily life means dying to self and living for Christ. It shapes your identity, relationships, and purpose, helping you become more like Jesus each day.
How can I explain the meaning of the cross to children?
1. Start with God’s Love
“God loves us so much that He wants to be with us forever.”
Children need to understand that the story of the cross starts with love, not punishment.
2. Explain Sin Simply
“Sometimes we do things that are wrong—like lying, being unkind, or disobeying. That’s called sin. Sin makes it hard for us to be close to God.”
Use examples they can relate to—like not sharing, being mean, or not listening to parents.
3. Introduce Jesus as the Solution
“God sent His Son, Jesus, to help us. Jesus never sinned, but He chose to take the punishment for all our sins.”
This introduces the concept of substitution in a way they can grasp.
4. Talk About the Cross
“Jesus died on the cross to take away our sins. It was very hard, but He did it because He loves us.”
You can say the cross was a way Jesus showed us how much He loves us—by doing something hard and painful so we could be close to God again.
5. End with the Resurrection and Hope
“But Jesus didn’t stay dead! He came back to life. Now, anyone who believes in Him can be forgiven and live with God forever.”
This keeps the story joyful and hopeful, not sad.
Helpful Tools
- Use a simple visual aid like a cross, a heart, or a picture book.
- Consider using a Christian children’s Bible or storybook.
- Use object lessons (like a clean vs. dirty shirt to represent sin and forgiveness).
Example Summary for a Child
“The cross is where Jesus showed His love for us. He took the punishment for the wrong things we’ve done so we can be close to God. And the best part? He came back to life! That’s why the cross is so special—it reminds us of Jesus’ love and how He helps us be friends with God.”
Conclusion
The cross is more than a historical event—it’s a living message of love, sacrifice, forgiveness, obedience, humility, and hope. When we embrace these five lessons, our lives become more Christlike and filled with purpose. As believers, we are called not only to remember the cross but to live out its message daily.
References
- The Holy Bible (NIV, KJV, ESV)
- John Stott, The Cross of Christ
- Billy Graham Evangelistic Association – https://billygraham.org
- Got Questions Ministries – https://www.gotquestions.org
- Desiring God Ministries – https://www.desiringgod.org
FAQs
Q1: Why is the cross so important to Christians?
The cross represents the sacrificial death of Jesus, which brought salvation to humanity. It’s the foundation of the Christian faith.
Q2: What does it mean to carry your cross daily?
It means to follow Christ with commitment, endure trials for His sake, and live selflessly in obedience to God.
Q3: Can anyone learn from the cross, even non-Christians?
Yes, the moral and spiritual lessons of love, forgiveness, and humility are universally valuable.
Q4: What Bible verses can help me reflect on the cross?
Some powerful verses include John 3:16, Romans 5:8, Luke 23:34, Philippians 2:8, and Isaiah 53:5.