Yancey, Jesus, Chapter 4

In Lutheran circles, we have a name for the content of chapter 4. It's The Theology of the Cross. Yancey probably knows all about the concept, but didn't want to confuse matters by throwing in a Term. It's okay for you to use it, though.
Even without the term, he lays out the concept admirably. There are two competing theologies, it turns out. One, the Theology of Glory, looks to success and power as its hallmarks. It's a very tempting way to think - that our religion is the strongest, or most popular, or make the best rational sense. We would like to prove Christianity is correct by the miracles it performs or the blessings it receives from God as tangible rewards. But all of that is hogwash, and not the way God operates.
The Theology of the Cross is God's way. It is illustrated in the crucifixion, obviously, but also, as Yancey points out, in the story of Jesus' temptation in the wilderness.
The devil tempted Jesus with all those glories - miracle, mystery and power - that seem reasonable, especially for the Messiah. But Jesus said no to all of it, choosing instead the way of the cross. By so doing, Jesus defeated the devil for a time; and by choosing the cross he defeated the devil permanently.
God takes a risk by adopting this strategy. He gives us freedom, even freedom to reject him, if we so choose. He does not force faith, but coaxes love from us.
People usually abuse their freedom.