John 19:19-22

Inscription on the Cross

Introduction:

The cost of our salvation is beyond anything we could think or imagine.  C. S. Lewis writes in his book, “Mere Christianity,” “It costs God nothing, so far as we know, to create nice things: but to convert rebellious wills cost Him crucifixion.”

It costs God the Father His beloved Son – Matthew 20:28. Jesus paid the ransom with the preciousness of His own blood to His Father, to satisfy the Holy Justice of God. His blood paid the debt of our sin.  It also costs a great deal to follow Christ and to become His disciple – Luke 14:27, 28 the inscription on the cross serves as a reminder that the work of Christ has been calculated and completed.

I. WHAT THE INSCRIPTION ON THE CROSS MEANS:

A. The Placard written in Hebrew, Greek and Latin – Matt. 27:37; Mark 15:26; Luke 23:38; John 19:19

B. Pilate’s way of mocking the Jews

1. No clue of Christ’s Messianic reign

2. The irony of this placard – Gen. 50:20

C. Jesus also is the King for everyone – Rev. 5:9

II. THE SAVIOR OF THE WORLD

A. How the word “world” is used in John’s Gospel:

1. Prologue – John qualifies those men who are enlightened and Sovereignly chosen – John 1:12,13, 29

2. Conversation with Nicodemus – John 3:16,17

3. Conversation with the Samaritan women – John 4:42 cf. 4:22

B. Images of Salvation:

1. Bread – John 6:32-35,48-51

2. Light – John 8:12; 9:5

3. Good Shepherd – John 10:16

C. Prophecy – John 11:49-52

D. Greeks – John 12:20-23

E. Invisible Inscription on the cross pertaining to us – Turn To: Colossians 2:13-14

Conclusion:

1. Have you reached out to touch Christ?

2. Have you called out upon the name of the Lord to be saved?

Pastor Nick Iamaio

        Reformed Presbyterian Church

                      207 South First Street, Fulton, NY 13069

              Web Site fultonrpc.org

                       12/2/2007