Set Apart: Every Nation Prayer & FastingSample

The Crux of Holiness

For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps. He committed no sin, neither was deceit found in his mouth. When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly. He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed. For you were straying like sheep, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls. 1 Peter 2:21–25

The cross of Christ is essential to the gospel message. We thank Jesus that his death on the cross reconciled us to God. For us today, crucifixion is an unfamiliar practice. In Jesus’ culture, crucifixion was a shameful and tortuous way to die. It was a method the Romans used to torment and humiliate perpetrators, and they used their victims as a forewarning to others.

At face value, Christ’s death was supposed to be a warning—“If you live the way this man lived, you will die.” But in reality, it was freedom—“He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness.” Crucifixion represented unholiness, yet Christ took our sins upon himself so that we could be holy.

His life, death, and resurrection impact every part of our lives. He offers salvation for our souls, healing for our bodies, peace and wisdom, and reconciliation into the family of God. All of these gifts have been freely given, and we receive the fullness of our salvation only by grace through faith.

Christ’s sacrifice bridged the gap between God and us. He laid a firm foundation to build our lives upon, and we can rest in his complete work that makes us righteous before God. Through the power of the resurrection, we can live holy. The basis for our holiness is the cross of Christ.

He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed.

Reflection

• Reflect on the significance of the cross and Christ’s sacrifice for you.
• What does it mean for your faith journey knowing that holiness hinges upon the cross of Christ?

Faith Step

Write down the names of people you are hoping will come to faith. Pray that God would give you an opportunity this week to preach the gospel to them.

Pray

Jesus, thank you for your sacrifice on the cross. I deserved death for my sins, but you gave me the free gift of eternal life.

You ransomed me from darkness and have made me holy. Thank you that my holiness does not rest on me but on your life, death, and resurrection. May I remember the goodness of your gospel all the days of my life.

Lord, I give you glory for bridging the gap between us, and I pray that I would be bold in sharing your goodness with those around me. Amen.