The Crucifixion and God’s Love | Rev. Adam Hamilton | Church of the Resurrection

About this sermon

In this powerful sermon, Pastor Adam unpacks the meaning of the cross—not as a transaction for God, but as a message for us. The crucifixion, he reminds us, was never about changing God's heart toward us, but changing our hearts toward Him. It was God's Word made flesh reaching its highest expression. Through Jesus’ suffering and death, God was declaring His deep, unfailing love for humanity. Pastor Adam walks us through various biblical and historical understandings of the cross, known as Theories of the Atonement. Each one is like a piece of a larger puzzle, helping us grasp what God is saying through the death of Jesus. From steadfast covenant love in the Old Testament to the self-giving love of Jesus, we see that God is not distant or angry—but a Father who would give everything to be in relationship with His children. The message of the cross is simple yet life-changing: YOU ARE LOVED. That love isn’t earned, and it doesn’t wait for you to be perfect. It’s already been given. This love calls for a response—not just to receive it, but to reflect it. When we truly internalize the love of Christ, we’re moved to live differently: to love boldly, forgive deeply, and serve selflessly. That’s how the world is changed. If you’ve ever questioned whether you’re truly loved or wondered what the cross really means, this sermon is for you. Watch now—and reflect on what it means to live a life shaped by the love that would not let you go. Highlights: [0:00] - Welcome [0:34] - Reading of Scripture [1:46] - Intro Video [2:27] - Sermon Intro: Recap [5:40] - Leonard Limousin’s Painting: What Is It Speaking To You? [9:29] - Moral Influence Part 2: The Cross As A Demonstration Of God’s Love [13:03] - Jesus’ Love Vs. Other Gods [15:09] - Why Is The God Of The Old Testament So Angry? [19:30] - The Cross Is Saying: You Are Loved [20:45] - What Love Can Look Like [25:31] - God Loves You [30:56] - Everyone Wants To Be Loved [32:01] - The Cross Is Meant For You To Love Others [34:16] - Conclusion [36:23] - Closing Prayer [37:22] - Thank You For Watching Visit our website: https://resurrection.church/ Connect with us on social media! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/weareresurrection Twitter: https://x.com/umcresurrection Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/resurrectionumc/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChurchoftheResurrection Learn more from us at https://resurrection.church/next #ResurrectionAUnitedMethodistChurch #WhatWondrousLoveIsThis #LentSeason

Topics

• Love & Compassion
• Church & Fellowship
• Resurrection
• Jesus Christ
• The Church