EMBRACING THE SUFFICIENCY OF THE CROSS (PART 2)
THE CROSS: POWER FOR DAILY LIVING.
TEXT: GALATIANS 2:20
INTRODUCTION
The cross is not only about salvation. It’s about transformation! The same cross that saves us also sustains us by its power. The power of the cross transforms us.
The cross is not a one-time event. It is the fountain of ongoing power. Because of the cross, we are equipped (empowered) for daily living.
Galatians 2:20 shows how the power of the cross transforms our identity, energizes our lifestyle, and gives us faith to live every day with victory and purpose.
UNDERSTANDING THE CROSS AS THE POWER FOR DAILY LIVING
1. Identity Shift
Through the cross, we have a new identity. “I have been crucified with Christ.” (Galatians 2:20a).
To be crucified with Christ means our old self (the sinful nature, the flesh, the self-will, self-efforts, guilt, shame) was put to death on the cross.
▪︎ Through the cross, we have a new identity. We are not the same person. (2 Corinthians 5:17. We are no longer our old self.
▪︎ This is the foundation of daily victory- the old life is no longer in control!
▪︎ Daily living begins with understanding that our sinful past and our sinful nature no longer have power over us because they were nailed to the cross (Colossians 3:3).
▪︎ The cross breaks the power of sin and through the cross, we have daily power to overcome sin (Romans 6:6-7, 11).
2. The Cross Enables a New Life.
“Nevertheless, I live, yet not I, but Christ lives in me” (Galatians 2:20b).
▪︎ Christianity is not behaviour modification. It is Christ living through us. Our life reflects Christ.
▪︎ The Christian life is not about trying harder, but surrendering to the One who lives within (2Corinthians 13:5).
▪︎ We are not alone in our walk. Christ is alive in us.
3. The Cross Transforms Ordinary Living into Extraordinary Living.
“The life which I now live in the flesh” (Galatians 2:20c).
▪︎ The cross affects not only our spiritual life but the totality of our life: how we live at home, at work, in our relationships, in trials, and in choices.
▪︎ The cross doesn’t remove us from the world, it equips us with power to live in it.
4. The Cross Establishes a New Way of Living (by faith)
“I live by faith of the Son of God” (Galatians 2:20d).
▪︎ Faith is the daily connection point to Christ’s life and power.
▪︎ Since we are saved by faith, we have to live by the same faith. “The just shall live by faith” (Hebrews 10:38).
▪︎ Every day, we have to rely on Jesus (not on ourselves, our strength, our ability, or our technical Knowhow).
▪︎ Not just for salvation but for every step and every decision.
5. The Power of The Cross is Rooted in Personal Love.
“Who loved me, and gave himself for me” (Galatians 2:20e).
▪︎ Christ’s sacrifice was out of deep, personal love (Romans 5:8; John 15:13).
▪︎ Knowing we are personally loved by Jesus gives us the strength to keep going, even when life is tough.
▪︎ Jesus didn’t just die for the world, He died for you as a person, because of His love for you.
▪︎ Understanding this love fuels obedience, devotion and inner strength. When life feels heavy, rest in His love. That’s where your strength flows from.
LIFE APPLICATION/ CONCLUSION
Embrace the power of the cross, it is sufficient for your total daily living.
•Temptation to sin? – Remember you are crucified with Christ!
▪︎ Confronted with failure?- Trust in Christ living in you!
▪︎ Stressed and under pressure?
Live by faith in the Son of God!
▪︎ Lonely?
Remember the One who loves you and gave His life for you is always with you.
▪︎ Daily Routines?
Let Christ express Himself through your words, actions, and attitude.