The Power of the Cross

The Power of the Cross John 12: 31-32

Introduction: 1. The Centrality of the cross and its vital importance…“We preach Christ crucified…” 2. The Historical setting in which Jesus spoke about the cross… a. There is a foreshadowing of the fruit of the cross, vs. 20-23, i.e. Isaiah 11:1, 10-12, cf. John 3:16 b. There is the necessity of death on the cross explained, vs. 24 c. The nature of the true disciple described vs. 25-26 d. There is a foreshadowing of the horror of the cross and Jesus’ resolve, vs. 27-28 1. He is the God-man, 2. We see His perfect humanity… e. The response of the Father, vs. 29-30

I. The Cross and the time of “this world’s judgment… A. The world is a lost world… B. There will be a final “Day of Judgment…” C. The world is a lost world… D. The judgment begins and rests upon the reality of Christ first coming, i.e. John 3:19-21

II. The Cross and the “casting out of the ruler of this world…” A. The world in an evil world, with a diabolical ruler… i.e. Ephesians 2:1ff B. Men boast of their free will and independence, however… C. Satan exercised his power and influence especially to keep people from Christ…2 Corinthians 4:3-4 D. The cross might have appeared to be a victory for Satan but in reality it is his defeat…Hebrews 2:14-15

III. The Cross and “the drawing all people to himself…” A. Christ lifted up… B. He draws all peoples… C. He must draw if we are ever to come to Him…Hosea 11:4; Jeremiah 31:3

Application: