Chapter 1: The Climax and the Key

This chapter is all about the cross the centrality of it. The cross can drive us to tears to know the pain that our Savior had to through because of what we did and yet give us the greatest joy as we rejoice in our salvation.

While serving in youth ministry I longed for more depth and theological debate, but in youth we typically talked about the basics and many conversations and teachings were focused around the cross. In my boredom and lack of awe-ness of the cross, I realize now that those were messages were meant for me. The cross should inspire us to remember who we were and what Christ has done for us. Our expression should be a sense of gratitude for the sacrifice, bewilderment of why did HE do this for someone like me, joy, thankfulness, inspiration, amazement, zeal...instead of a ho-hum attitude.

Practical Application:
How is your attitude towards the things of the Lord?
If you are not excited and you are having a hard time enjoying your relationship with Christ I strongly suggest getting with fellow believers, spending more time praying and reading The Word, and continue reading this book.

Do you share your testimony?
Christ's death on the cross and resurrection should inspire you to share what HE has done in your life. Your testimony is made up of three main parts.
-What was your life like before you met Christ
-How He drew you into His loving arms - How did you come to know Christ
-How has Christ changed your life
To those that don't know how God has changed your life you may want to spend more time with Him. He will reveal how sinful you were and humble you as grow and learn about what it means to be a Christian. I should also warn you that faith without works is dead, if you confess that Christ is your Lord and Savior and have confessed of your sins then you should see Christ working in your life.