The cross features prominently in Christian tradition. The cross was before, during and after Christ Jesus for different and varied reasons and accounts. Appreciating its value or relevance throughout time should edify the believer.
The history
The cross was used by the Babylonians centuries before Christ. Prior to Jesus’ death, the cross had been adopted by the Romans and other civilizations as a vehicle of death for notorious criminals. It is the modern equivalent of a death sentence by lethal injection, hanging or firing squad after sentencing. It was the cruel of all punishments. Crucifixion was on a hill outside the city but visible to the town folks in order to serve as a reminder and a deterrent for future offenders.
The purpose
It was to put an end to notorious crimes against society or the rulers or its governors or officers; to preserve their laws, tradition and culture; to inject fear of engaging in insurrection or coup d’état; to sanitize their society for peace and order; and to enforce culture of silence through threats of death. Jewish religious leaders also patronized this tradition in order to preserve their ancient religious beliefs.
Crucifixion trial
It was conducted by officers of the law comprising religious leaders, military authorities, and political rulers. Sometimes the verdict was by popular acclamation at a public place or governor’s court yard. The highest authority usually assented to it before execution. Today Governors of states or presidents of countries assent to death penalties before they are executed. It was deemed ratified by God.
Jesus on the cross
The cross was a symbol of God’s rejection and a curse. On the cross Jesus bore our iniquities so spiritually he appeared as a sinner or transgressor, Galatians 3:13. Jesus under this rejection and curse cried, Eli, Eli lama sabach-thani, “My God, my God why hast thou forsaken me” Matthew 27:46. Jesus however was without any personal sin or crime but ours.
Labeled as a criminal in our stead, Jesus was chastised for our peace and whipped for our healing in denial of justice, Isaiah 53:5-6. He was wounded for our transgressions, 1 Peter 2:24. He was humiliated for our shame, Acts 8:33. He was murdered for our eternal life. Acts 8:32-33 referencing Isaiah 53:7 said, Jesus was led as a sheep to the slaughter; and like a lamb before its shearer, he opened not his mouth: In humiliation his judgment was taken away by a generation of wicked and perverse people.
The cross after crucifixion
In sharp contrast, the cross assumed spiritual significance among Christians. Now, it symbolizes Jesus’ sacrifice of his unblemished life for us. It shows triumph for us over eternal death and curse in damnation. 1 Corinthians 15:55 says, O death, where is thy victory? O death, where is thy sting?
The cross reminds us of unfettered access to God’s grace through Jesus Christ. It is a symbol of opportunity for abundant life after death, John 10:10. It is a symbol of eternal life, John 3:16. It shows an end to our eternal shame or humiliation, Romans 1:16, Romans 10:11. It stands for our divine healing and cleansing, 1 Corinthians 12:9; our redemption Romans 3:24, Ephesians 1:7; and our restoration as children of God, Romans 8:14.
The cross symbolizes God’s companionship with us through the Holy Spirit, John 14:26, Acts 2:4. It reminds us that Jesus has risen from death, Matthew 28:6 so the dead in Christ shall also rise, John 11:25. It confirms that just as Jesus overcame sin in a sinful world, we can do likewise. It is a symbol that God is with us always, to the close of the age, Matthew 28:20. It reminds us that God’s grace is sufficient for us to perfect our weaknesses, 2 Corinthians 12:9; and that we are united with Christ by fellowship through one baptism of the Holy Spirit, 1 Corinthians 6:17, Romans 6:5.
You and the cross
Simon of Cyrene helped to carry Jesus’ cross. Mary, Mary Magdalene and the disciples followed Jesus to his crucifixion in sorrow. Joseph of Arimathea asked for Jesus’ body and laid him in his tomb. I have clung to the old rugged cross for my redemption and personal relationship. What about you? What is the relevance of the cross to you personally?
Prayer
Lord Jesus, the purpose for your dying on the cross shall never change. Let the cross always remind me of your suffering for me on the cross. Let me value your sacrifice and reciprocate with obedience to your will. Amen!!
