Why is Christ crucified central to the gospel?

The central theme of the gospel is Christ crucified, as highlighted in 1 Corinthians 2:2 where Paul declares, 'I determined not to know anything among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified.' This event is pivotal for salvation because, through His death, Jesus bore the penalty for sin, enabling believers to receive justification and righteousness not based on the law but through faith (Philippians 3:9). The crucifixion underscores God's love and grace, demonstrating that salvation is a gift, not earned by human effort.