Paul’s view of the Cross

By God’s marvelous grace Paul had come to view [the] cross as:
a. The Mirror, and this not only of his own unworthiness but also of God’s resplendent attributes, that is, of such “excellencies” as God’s righteousness which must receive its due (Rom 8:3-4); God’s power and wisdom (1 Cor 1:24); and his love, mercy, and grace (2 Cor 5:19-21; Gal 2:20); all of these in sublime harmony with each other (Psa 85:10).
b. The Means of Redemption in its most comprehensive sense (Justification, Sanctification, Glorification). See such passages as Rom 3:25-26; Rom 6:6; Gal 3:13; Eph 1:7; Eph 2:16; Col 1:20; Col 2:14. Cf. Heb 9:22; Rev 7:14.
c. The Magnet by means of which men of every tribe and nation, being drawn to Christ Crucified, are also drawn together as one body (Gal 3:23-29; Eph 2:16, Eph 2:18; Col 3:11. Cf. Jn 3:13-14; Jn 12:32).
d. The Model for men to imitate. The redemptive acts can never be imitated, but the spirit of self-sacrifice and love that is revealed in these acts should be reflected in the hearts and lives of God’s children (Rom 15:1-2; 2 Cor 8:9; Eph 5:1-2; Php 2:5-8). Cf. Jn 13:14, Jn 13:34; 1 Pet 2:21-24.
William Hendriksen, New Testament Commentary on Galatians 6:14
John Stott (The Preacher’s Notebook) quotes Prebendary F. S. Webster (rector of All Souls 1900–1920) in a published sermon: ‘Paul preached Christ crucified, the hope of sinners, the joy of saints, the strength of sufferers, the study of angels, the glory of heaven, the wonder of eternity.’