Tim Chester - A Church of the Cross

If you have read my blog lately you will know that the "theology of the cross" has become the pattern by which I am beginning to understand my life.  Tim Chester takes this to the next level in a post at the Resurgence as he talks about a "Church of the Cross."  Here's a couple of excerpts. 

The great Reformer Martin Luther spoke of theologies of glory and a theology of the cross. Theologies of glory look for the revelation of God in his mighty works: creation, miracles, spiritual experiences. But this kind of knowledge, said Luther, only puffs people up. Instead God has chosen to reveal himself supremely in the cross. 

And: 

Now apply the same idea to our churches. Churches of glory will put their confidence in mighty works: stage performances, big budgets, large numbers, powerful arguments, charismatic preachers. A church of the cross will be characterized by power in weakness, wisdom in foolishness, victory in shame. Its confidence will be in the sovereignty of God, the presence of his Spirit, and the power of his Word.

Just as the theology of the cross transforms our understanding of the individual Christian life it can change our understanding of life in the church.