Is the cross the right symbol for Christianity?

Joanna (No)

Though the cross is widely accepted as the most popular symbol of Christianity, it may not be the right one. In the past, a fish, dove, ship, anchor, and lyre were used to represent Christianity. These were suitable due to their significance. Take the fish symbol for instance. In Koine Greek—i.e., the language of the Christian New Testament—fish is ‘ichthus,’ which is an acronym for “Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior.”

While cross imagery was present in the second and third centuries, it wasn’t until the fourth century that it became prominent Christian iconography. 

Some critics believe the cross shouldn’t have ever become related to Christianity as crosses have deeper roots in paganism. Author Ralph Woodrow explains, 'It was not until Christianity began to be paganized that the cross came to be thought of as a Christian symbol. It was in 431 AD that crosses in churches and chambers were introduced, while the use of crosses on steeples did not come until about 586 AD.' Pagan roots aside, the cross itself may not be an accurate representation of Christianity. There are at least seven types of crosses, and almost no evidence indicating Jesus was crucified on a cross-like structure. In fact, according to 1 Peter 2:24, Jesus may have been put to death on an upright pole rather than a cross. 

But even if the cross is an accurate representation, should an instrument of death be idolized? Moreover, in His crucifixion, Jesus took on Himself the sins of his followers. So, while being forgiven is a blessing, glorifying the instrument used for their Savior's torture is unnecessary. With this in mind, it may be best to follow what Jesus taught His followers—to display their spirituality through actions and deeds. 

Elisa (Yes)

While some people criticize the cross, the truth is that the cross is one of the most fundamental symbols of true Christianity. While the cross should not be worshipped or made into an idol, as God forbids, when used as a symbol, it perfectly represents Christianity to those who see it. 

The cross is powerful because it reminds believers of the God-man Jesus, who died on it to take away our sins, demonstrating His unfathomable love for us. It is also a call for Christians to pursue righteousness and humility as our Lord did. Unfortunately, some see the cross as an unnecessary reminder of Jesus’s brutal crucifixion death, but that is exactly what we should think about when we view it. Why? His death represents “willful humility,' as Philippians 2:7-8 describes how the God of the universe entered into His creation as a human and lovingly died for His people. Jesus even commanded his followers to 'take up your cross and follow Me' (Matthew 16:24). 

This is further expounded in the scriptures following Christ's ascension that believers are to be 'dead to sin' in light of Christ's sacrifice (Romans 6:11). We must put off the 'old self' to 'put on the new self' (Ephesians 4:22-24) because we are a 'new creation' (2 Corinthians 5:17), having been 'crucified with Christ. It is no longer [we] who live, but Christ who lives in [us]' (Galatians 2:20). 

The cross represents both life and death simultaneously, a constant reminder to Christians and non-Christans alike about the brevity of this world and the importance of God. The cross is undoubtedly one of the central, crucial features of Christianity as it represents the most important thing of all—Jesus Christ.