Why is the Cross central to the Christian faith?

The Cross is the pivotal event in Christianity; it is where God's justice and mercy meet. According to the sermon, Jesus Christ's crucifixion was not merely a historical event but the calculated fulfilment of God's redemptive plan established before the foundation of the world (Acts 4:27-28). The Cross signifies the depth of God's love for His people, showcasing that through Christ's suffering and death, believers are granted forgiveness for sins and eternal life. As noted in Psalm 2, God established His King upon Zion, and Jesus’ crucifixion is foundational to His reign, demonstrating that true authority and kingship come through suffering and sacrifice. The significance of the Cross is affirmed in 1 Corinthians 1:18, where it states that while it may be foolishness to those perishing, it is the power of God to those being saved.