Yesterday, while scanning the channels on my Sirius XM radio, I discovered a Billy Graham channel that plays his old sermons and talks. This discovery felt timely because on Sunday night at dinner, several church members and I had been discussing the great evangelist. Intrigued, I decided to listen to one of his sermons during my 30-minute drive home. In this sermon, he taught about why the cross offends, and as I listened to him speak, I was struck by how relevant his message still is today. Inspired by his words, I felt compelled to write a devotional on this important topic.

Have you ever wondered why the thought of the cross offends so many people? It’s a symbol central to our Christian faith, representing love, sacrifice, and redemption. Yet, it often stirs up discomfort, anger, and even hostility. Billy Graham preached gave three reasons why the cross offends. Let’s explore those reasons, understand why the cross offends, and how we can use this understanding to continue witnessing about Jesus. 
 

The Offense of the Cross 

1. The Cross Condemns the World: The cross represents the ultimate judgment against sin and evil. It stands as a stark reminder of humanity’s sinful nature and the need for redemption. In John 3:19-20 (NIV), Jesus says, “This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that their deeds will be exposed.” The cross exposes sin, and many are offended by this exposure. 

2. The Cross Declares the Way to Salvation: The cross declares that there is only one way to be saved, and that is through Jesus Christ. This exclusivity is offensive to a world that values pluralism and relativism. In John 14:6 (NIV), Jesus clearly states, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” People are offended by the idea that they cannot achieve salvation through their own efforts or other beliefs. 

3. The Cross Demands a New Lifestyle: Accepting the cross means surrendering to Christ and living a life that is counter to the world’s values. This demand for a transformed life is challenging and offensive to many. Galatians 5:24 (NIV) says, “Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.” The cross calls for self-denial and taking up one’s own cross daily, which many find difficult to accept. 

In today’s society, with its emphasis on wokeness and political correctness, the cross can offend even more. The idea of absolute truth and moral absolutes clashes with the prevailing cultural narrative that promotes individualism and subjective morality. This offense isn’t limited to non-believers; even some Christians can feel uneasy about the exclusivity and demands of the cross. 

However, it’s essential to remember that while times change, the message of the cross remains timeless. Hebrews 13:8 (NIV) reminds us, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” The cross and its significance are never outdated. The Apostle Paul faced similar challenges in his time. In 1 Corinthians 1:18 (NIV), he wrote, “For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.” The cross will always be a point of contention, but it is also the foundation of our faith. 

Let’s look at some biblical examples of how the message of the cross offended people and how it was overcome: 

1. The Pharisees and Religious Leaders: The religious leaders of Jesus’ time were deeply offended by His teachings and His claim to be the Son of God. They viewed Him as a threat to their authority and traditions. John 19:6 (NIV) records their reaction: “As soon as the chief priests and their officials saw him, they shouted, ‘Crucify! Crucify!’” Despite their offense, the early church continued to preach the message of the cross boldly, leading to the spread of Christianity. 

2. The Greeks and Intellectuals: In Athens, Paul encountered philosophers who mocked the idea of the resurrection. Acts 17:32 (NIV) says, “When they heard about the resurrection of the dead, some of them sneered, but others said, ‘We want to hear you again on this subject.’” Paul’s response was to continue preaching the gospel, planting seeds that would eventually grow in the hearts of those who were open to the message. 

3. The Roman Authorities: The Roman Empire saw the growing Christian movement as a threat to their political power and social order. Many Christians faced persecution, but their unwavering faith and commitment to the message of the cross inspired others to believe. Revelation 12:11 (NIV) speaks of their victory: “They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death.” 

As Christians, understanding why the cross offends can help us respond with compassion and wisdom when witnessing to others. Here are a few practical steps: 

1. Show Love and Compassion: When sharing the message of the cross, do so with love and compassion. Jesus commanded us to love our neighbors as ourselves (Matthew 22:39, NIV). Let your words and actions reflect the love of Christ. 

2. Be Patient and Understanding: Recognize that the message of the cross can be challenging for people to accept. Be patient and understanding, allowing the Holy Spirit to work in their hearts. 1 Peter 3:15 (NIV) advises, “But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.” In sales, the statistics say, on average, you will have to present your product to someone 7 times before they buy it.  In Real Estate, you need 13 touch points before they will hire you to help them buy or sell real estate.  Talking to someone about Christ or inviting them to church will take more than 1 or 2 times.  Be patient and keep asking.

3. Live Out the Message: Let your life be a testimony to the power of the cross. Demonstrate the transformative impact of the cross through your actions and relationships. Matthew 5:16 (NIV) says, “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” 

The thought of the cross will always offend some people because it confronts sin, declares the way to salvation, and demands a new lifestyle. In today’s society, these truths can be even more challenging to accept. However, as Christians, we are called to share the message of the cross with love, patience, and understanding. We must show that the sacrifices are worth it by making the sacrifices ourselves in our daily lives.

Remember, the message of the cross is the power of God for those who believe. Let us continue to witness boldly, living out our faith and trusting that God will work in the hearts of those we encounter. The cross may offend, but it also redeems, transforms, and gives eternal hope. Let’s embrace its message and share it with a world in need. Blessings to you as you carry this powerful message forward!