Crucifixion was a method of execution used by the Romans. It involved nailing or tying a person to a wooden cross. The person was left to die. It was slow. It was painful. It was public. It was designed to humiliate. It was reserved for slaves, rebels, and the worst criminals. It was a deterrent. It was a scandal. It was a curse.

Jesus was crucified. He was condemned by the Sanhedrin. He was tried by Pilate. He was scourged. He was mocked. He was nailed to a cross. He was lifted up. He hung for hours. He spoke seven times. He forgave his killers. He promised paradise to a thief. He cared for his mother. He felt forsaken. He said it is finished. He died. The earth shook. The curtain tore. The centurion believed. That is the story. That is the gospel.

Crucifixion in scripture

• Matthew 27: crucifixion and death.
• Mark 15: the shortest account.
• Luke 23: Jesus forgives and promises paradise.
• John 19: Jesus cares for his mother.
• Philippians 2:8: obedient to death on a cross.

The cross is the symbol of Christianity. It is a symbol of suffering. It is a symbol of love. It is a symbol of victory. Christ died on the cross. He took the punishment for sin. He bore the curse. He paid the price. He redeemed us. The cross is not the end. The resurrection is the end. The cross is the means. The resurrection is the victory. The cross is where sin was dealt with. The resurrection is where death was defeated. The cross is foolishness to the world. It is the power of God to those who are saved. The cross is the center of history. It is the center of the gospel. It is the center of our faith. We preach Christ crucified. That is the message. That is the hope. That is the cross.