Why is the cross a Christian symbol?
The cross was a means of capital punishment by the Roman Empire. Jesus was put to death on a cross, where He bore the punishment for our sins. For the people of Jesus’ day it was a symbol of condemnation and death. Because Jesus condemned and died in our place, the cross is a symbol of forgiveness, life, and salvation.
Why do we have crosses in our worship and our homes?
We have crosses in our worship and homes because it reminds us of God’s grace to us in Jesus. It reminds us of the forgiveness of our sins, our membership in the kingdom of God, and our hope of heaven.
What does the Bible say about this symbol?
The Bible says that Jesus was crucified under Pontius Pilate, fulfilling the promises of God in the Old Testament. What was a symbol of shame has become a symbol of hope and peace, and the reason for our boast (Galatians 6:14).
Suggestions
You may want to sing the following hymns from Lutheran Service Book: 425, 427, 428, 434, 437, 439, 440, 449, 451, 453
Object Lesson
Show a cross. Tell what it was in Jesus’ day, then explain how it has become a symbol of hope for us since Jesus took our sins away on the cross.
Prayer
Jesus, may our hearts be burning with more fervent love for You; may our eyes be ever turning to behold Your cross anew till in glory parted never from the blessed Savior’s side, graven in our hearts forever, dwell the cross, the Crucified. Amen.