Preaching The Cross

The preaching of the cross
Is not just done in teaching;
When scripturally done,
It stops not with preaching.
In all gospel proclamation
The cross must central be,
Beginning with the evangel
And throughout eternity!

Yes, the cross deals with sins
That we may have new birth;
But it must also deal with sin
If we're to know our worth.
It not only deals with deeds;
It must change our inner being.
Our being crucified with Him, (Gal. 2:20)
Not only sins but self we're seeing.

Absent this vital dimension,
Ministry is without power;
Transformed lives are lacking
And from the world we cower.
Our Lord promised to be with us
If we disciple in His name, (Matt. 28:19,20)
With both the Blood and the Cross
Being emphasized the same.

With the cross for Jesus only,
The flesh escapes detection;
Unless it is exposed
There'll be need for correction.
Fleshly ministry has been the rule
Since preaching the cross is rare;
Only as it's front and central
Will the Spirit witness bear.


Revival is our great need,
As is a completed Reformation;
Only as we preach the cross
Will lives know transformation.
Church growth had great numbers,
But spiritual growth was lacking;
Church leaders must plumb the depths,
If we're to have their backing.

Preaching of the cross. . . the power of God (1 Cor. 1:18)
Is the message most needed;
Revival will again be known
When His word we've heeded.
It is not 'Will revival come?'
But, 'Will we begin to preach it?'
Once preaching crucified with Christ,
We will begin to reach it!

Our God is not capricious
In withholding blessing from us;
When we become obedient,
He will fulfill His promise.
Preaching the cross. . . the power of God
Maintains the centrality of the cross.
Losing our lives to save them, (Matt. 16:24,25)
We will cease to suffer loss.


PREACHING THE CROSS
C. R. Solomon
6-16-12