Seven Benefits Of The Old Rugged Cross

1. Sanctification
The song of the Old Rugged Cross speaks of pardon and sanctification because of the blood shed by Jesus.  It proudly proclaims that clinging to the Old Rugged Cross will permit one to exchange it one day for a crown.  This is all according to Scripture.  We were washed, sanctified and justified in the name of Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God  (First Corinthians' 6:11).  In other words those obedient to the gospel were given a pardon from sin.

2. Redemption
The biblical concept of redemption is based upon the Jewish practice of buying back something such as land or a slave, which was formerly owned, but lost because of a debt or some other reason.  We have a debt that we cannot pay because we succumbed to sin, and became its slave.  Jesus is our redeemer because he purchased our release with his own blood

3. Life
The Bible speaks of physical life, blessed abundant life, and eternal life. (John 10:10).  He created all physical life and the entire universe...Because of the cross, Jesus was able to give us blessed, abundant life and eternal life.  Blessed abundant life means that we have assurance of salvation and promised that God will make everything work together for good.

4. Peace
No one else can give the peace that Jesus does.  He is our peace.  Because of this, we do not have to be anxious about anything.  Instead, in every situation, through prayer and petition and giving thanks, we can give our requests to God. The peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus  (Philippians 4:6-7).

5. Freedom From Worry
Because of abundant life and peace, we can be free from worry.  Having concern is wise but constant worry will only take up you time and make you miserable. Jesus asked, "Which of you by worrying can add even one hour to his life?"  He gives the example of the birds and the flowers that are taken care of by God.  He promised God will take care of us even better.  (Matthew 6:25-34)

6. Victorious in Death
Even in death, the faithful will be victorious.  When this perishable body becomes imperishable and this mortal becomes immortal, then will come to pass the saying that is written, death is swallowed in victory.  Where oh death is your sting? Where oh grave is your victory?  (First Corinthians' 15:51-55).  The Old Rugged Cross took the sting out of our death.

7. Confidence on the Day of Judgment
I have written these things to you who believe in the name of the son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life  (First John 5:13).  We have come to know and to believe the love that God has in us.  God is love, and the ones who reside in love resides in God and God resides with us so that we may have confidence in the day of judgment, because just as Jesus is, so we are in the world. There is no fear in love, but perfect love drives out fear because fear has to do with punishment.  The one who fears punishment has not been perfected in love  (1 John 4:16-18).

The crucifixion of Christ was the most important event in the history of the world. Without his sacrifice, we would all still be in our sins.  Sadly, Christians who fall away and begin their evil ways again crucify him afresh and put him to an open shame  (Hebrew's 6:6).  We should make every effort to glorify him by serving to the best of our ability.  If you are one of the many who are unfamiliar with the Bible, you need the book, "Climbing the Heavenly Stairs."  This gives the basis of requirements for salvation in simple language.  Learn more at: http://thelynnbradleybook.com.


By Lynn Bradley
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