Preaching the Cross in Dark Times: Finding Hope and Strength in Faith 

“Darkness as black as night covers all the nations if the earth, … ” (Isa. 60:2a).

“Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen (Heb. 11:1).

The message about the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing. But to us who are being saved, it is the power of God. For it is written, “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and the discernment of the discerning I will thwart” (1 Cor. 18:18-19).

If we can’t preach the cross at a time like this, when can we? The cross is a source of hope in dreadful times, but the meaning of Jesus’s death is also boundless. It is also as important as ever as we navigate these dark times. But communicating this in ways that make sense of today’s world can be difficult. 

 The “preaching of the cross” was the distinctive message of the Apostle Paul. It was the gospel he preached, that Christ died for our sins and rose from the dead for our salvation (1 Corinthians 15.1-4). Paul’s gospel was faith + 0. The Twelve did not preach this gospel. Other writers of the New Testament only preached it after they learned about it from Paul. And, as a result, Paul’s gospel, his “preaching of the cross,” precipitated a great crisis among the Jewish leadership in Jerusalem that resulted in the Council of Jerusalem (c. 51 A.D.)¹ The goal of this study is to examine Paul’s message and how it was unique to his ministry as the “apostle to the Gentiles.”

“The message of the cross is foolish to those who are headed for destruction! But we who are being saved know it is the very power of God (1 Cor. 1:18).

In the archives of history, there have been periods of profound darkness. There were times of war, famine, persecution, and plague. During these moments, humanity has grappled with hopelessness and despair. Yet, even in these darkest of times, the message of the cross has shone as a beacon of hope. It has been a source of unyielding strength. Preaching the cross during such times is not merely a call to faith. It is a profound testament to the enduring power of God’s grace. It reflects redemption, restoration and divine love. 

The Cross as a Symbol of Hope 

Throughout the ages, the cross has stood as a powerful symbol of hope. For early Christians facing persecution, it was a reminder of Christ’s ultimate sacrifice and victory over death. The crucifixion was an act of profound suffering and obvious defeat. It was transformed into the triumphant resurrection. The resurrection is a promise of eternal life and divine justice. In dark times, when the weight of the world seems unbearable, the cross reassures believers. It shows that suffering is not the end. Instead, it is a passage to a greater, eternal hope. 

Historical Contexts of Preaching the Cross 

The Early Church and Roman Persecution 

In the first centuries after Christ, the early church endured severe persecution under Roman rule. Preaching the cross in such a hostile environment was an act of profound courage. The message of Christ’s suffering resonated deeply with those who faced martyrdom. It offered them solace and a sense of divine solidarity. The Apostle Paul, in his letters, often emphasized the power of the cross, declaring, “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” (1 Cor. 1:18). 

The Plague and Medieval Europe 

During the devastating plagues of medieval Europe, death was an ever-present specter. In this difficult time, the cross became a focal point of faith. Priests and preachers emphasized Christ’s suffering to understand and endure their own. The Black Death claimed millions of lives. It drove people to seek solace in the church. There, the message of the cross offered a glimmer of hope midst the overwhelming sorrow and fear. 

World War II and the Holocaust 

In the 20th century, the atrocities of World War II and the Holocaust brought unprecedented levels of human suffering. Preaching the cross during this era meant confronting unimaginable evil and despair. Yet, it was precisely in these darkest moments that the message of sacrificial love and redemptive suffering found profound resonance. Theologians like Dietrich Bonhoeffer faced execution for opposing the Nazi regime. He spoke of the cross as a call to costly discipleship and unwavering faith in the face of evil. 

Contemporary Challenges and the Cross 

In today’s world, we are not immune to dark times. Global pandemics, social and political unrest, misinformation and disinformation, evil speech …, economic crises, and environmental disasters. The threat of recession all contribute to a pervasive sense of uncertainty and fear. Preaching the cross today means addressing these issues directly. This message transcends temporal suffering. It points to God’s eternal truths. 

The Cross and Social Justice 

The cross calls believers to confront injustice and stand in solidarity with the oppressed. In times of social and political turmoil, preaching the cross means advocating for peace, equity, and human dignity. It reminds us that Christ’s sacrifice was for all humanity. Thus, our faith compels us to act with compassion and justice. 

The Cross and Personal Suffering 

On an individual level, the message of the cross offers profound comfort to those experiencing personal trials. Whether facing illness, loss, or personal hardship, the cross speaks of a God who is intimately acquainted with human suffering. It offers not only empathy but also redemption. Preachers can draw on this powerful narrative to give congregants a sense of purpose and hope in their struggles. 

Practical Approaches to Preaching the Cross 

Emphasizing Story and Testimony 

One of the most effective ways to preach the cross in dark times is through storytelling and personal testimony. Preachers can make the message of the cross relatable by sharing stories. They show how it has transformed lives. They highlight how it has provided hope in dire circumstances. Testimonies of faith in the face of adversity can inspire and uplift, demonstrating the tangible power of the cross. I having personally experienced some profound losses and setbacks through my journey. The lost of a dear friend, lost of work

Fostering Community and Support 

Preaching the cross should also involve fostering a strong sense of community and mutual support. In dark times, the church must be a haven of care and solidarity, reflecting the love and compassion of Christ. Encouraging small groups, prayer circles, and support networks can help individuals feel connected. They feel supported, reinforcing the message of the cross through shared love and care. 

Integrating Worship and Liturgy 

Worship and observances play a crucial role in reinforcing the message of the cross. Hymns, prayers, and sacraments that focus on Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection can deeply move and inspire congregants. By adding these elements to regular worship, preachers can consistently remind believers of the hope. They can also emphasize the strength found in the cross. 

Conclusion 

Preaching the cross in dark times is a profound act of faith and compassion. It is a call to remember the life-changing power of Christ’s sacrifice and the eternal hope it offers. In the face of suffering, despair, and uncertainty, the message of the cross remains a steadfast beacon. It guides believers toward a future filled with divine love and redemption. Preachers can use historical reflection to convey this timeless message. They can apply contemporary insights and use practical approaches. This provides solace and strength to all who seek it. 

“The God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing. By the power of the Holy Spirit, you abound in hope” (Romans 15:13).

Notes: All Scriptures are taken from the New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition (NRSVUE) unless otherwise noted

Blessings,

Minister A. Francine Green