Major Ian Thomas discusses the failures of three biblical figures—Peter, Mary, and Thomas—who all attempted to live a Christian life without truly possessing the necessary faith in the cross and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Despite their sincere desires, they each faced despair and failure because they tried to embody a life they did not have. Ultimately, through their failures, they discovered that true Christianity requires the indwelling of Christ, who empowers believers to live out their faith. Thomas emphasizes that it is only through the resurrection life of Jesus that one can truly become a Christian, highlighting the necessity of both the cross and the resurrection in the Christian experience.

A.W. Tozer emphasizes that the cross represents not only the selfless life of Christ but also the essence of the normal Christian life, which requires self-denial and following Jesus. He warns against the inherent self-interest in human nature that can lead to spiritual loss, urging believers to evaluate their Christianity against New Testament teachings. Tozer stresses that love is the only acceptable motive for our actions before God, and cautions against disguising self-serving behaviors as godliness. He calls for a radical shift in our motives to align with the true essence of Christian living.