How do we know that Jesus Christ and Him crucified is central to the gospel?

The claim that Jesus Christ and Him crucified is central to the gospel is substantiated by scripture itself. Paul underscores that the entirety of scripture points to this singular truth, revealing that the crucifixion is the pivotal moment of salvation history. It is here that God's justice is satisfied, and the righteousness necessary for salvation is obtained. The cross is not only foundational for individual belief, but it is also the key to understanding all of scripture, providing clarity on God's holiness, man’s depravity, and the necessity of Christ's redemptive work.