The Cross Centred Life

The Cross Centred Life
by C. J. Mahaney
Multnomah Books, Colorado Springs 2002

The Cross Centred Life is a short book on a very important subject. C. J. Mahaney reminds us here that the gospel of Christ's saving work on the cross is not only the main thing we need to grasp when we become Christians; the cross is also the main thing we need to keep focused on in order to live as Christians.

In essence, the purpose of this book is to help readers think through what it means to live by the gospel, what difference the knowledge that Christ died for you makes to how we should live our lives.

In seven short chapters and under 90 pages, the author covers a range of important subjects including: why our lives should be centred on the cross, the dangers of legalism, how to overcome a life full of guilt and condemnation, and the problem of living only by our feelings. There are then chapters on daily life focused on the cross and a final chapter on how there is not "something else to move onto" beyond the cross in the Christian life, however much we grow through learning and experience.

The book is not heavy reading in any way and could be read by profit by new Christians from mid teenage upwards. It could also be used as the basis for devotional reading over a week or so for any Christian.

Though fairly basic, I found it refreshing and challenging to be reminded once again of the glory of the cross and my need to live a cross-centred life every day. I could imagine myself coming back to it from time to time when I need to remind myself again of these vital truths.

I totally agree with Mahaney's comment: you can put this book away on your shelf, but never put away the message of this book.