There is something paradoxical about the power that Jesus displayed on the cross. There he was mocked by onlookers who said, He saved others; let him save himself, if he is the Christ of God, his Chosen One (Luke 23:35)! One of the criminals joined their chorus, Are you not the Christ? Save yourself and us. (Luke 23:39). Jesus was certainly able to save himself; he was on that cross because of his own choice. He had submitted to the plan of his father and like a Lamb been led to the slaughter. Even as they breathed their threats, Jesus sustained their hearts. Even as he hung from the cross, Jesus maintained its shape. He upheld the universe by the Word of his power, and yet he chose to die in a display of seeming powerlessness on a shameful cross.

But in this paramount display of weakness, God’s power was most radically displayed. In his death, Jesus disarmed the rulers and authorities and set free the captives. He overthrew the dominion of Satan, and he overcame sin and death! What appeared to be his lowest point of weakness was actually his most masterful display of power. And now this power is ours to fight sin and one day overcome death with our savior!

O, to see my name written in the wounds,

For through Your suffering I am free.

Death is crushed to death, life is mine to live,

Won through Your selfless love!

This the power of the cross:

Son of God slain for us.

What a love! What a cost!

We stand forgiven at the cross.

(Keith Getty and Stuart Townend)