The Cross
The cross represents the complete display of man's enmity against God and the manifestation of Satan's power, showcasing God's perfect love and righteousness.
John Nelson Darby emphasizes the significance of the cross as the ultimate confrontation between good and evil, showcasing humanity's rejection of God's love and the manifestation of Satan's power. He highlights the perfect obedience and love of Christ, even in the face of sin and suffering, demonstrating God's righteousness and infinite love for sinners. The cross stands as a unique event in eternity, revealing both the depths of human enmity and the heights of divine grace, ultimately leading to the glorification of man in God's presence.
Text
(Words of Faith, Vol. 3, 1884, page 244.)
I see how, in the cross, the whole question of good and evil was brought to an issue in every way. First, it was the complete display of man's enmity against God - the contemptuous rejection, alas! of God - come in love, for His love He had "hatred;" and in every detail, disciples, priests, Pilate, all bring out the evil that was in man. Then Satan's power is fully manifested, and that over men in their passions, and in one sense in death, at least in the sorrow of Christ's soul.
Next, I get the perfect Man as nowhere else - perfect love to the Father; perfect, absolute, obedience; and that in the very place of sin, and the cup it had filled. And this in human weakness, Satan's power (though above both, by looking to God), and the forsaking of God.
And, then, God Himself, in perfect righteousness against sin, and sovereign, perfect, infinite love to the sinner, His majesty and truth, both made good.
Such is the cross! In the history of eternity it stands alone.
Man in God's glory is its blessed result. J. N. D.
Sermon Outline
- The Cross as the Display of Man's Enmity
- Satan's Power Manifested
- The Perfect Man
- God's Righteousness and Love
- God's righteousness against sin
- God's sovereign, perfect, infinite love to the sinner
Key Quotes
“Such is the cross! In the history of eternity it stands alone.” — John Nelson Darby
“Man in God's glory is its blessed result.” — John Nelson Darby
Application Points
- Recognize the evil that is in man and the need for God's love and redemption.
- Understand the power of Satan and the importance of resisting his influence.
- Appreciate the perfect love and obedience of Christ and seek to follow His example.