Why do Christians use the crucifix as the symbol of their faith?

Question

Jesus Christ preached of love and understanding but a crucifix surely symbolises death and torture.

It contradicts everything it is supposed to represent!

Answer 1

I think its the idea of victory over the cross. So, yeah, I guess the crucifix symbol is kind of sick.

We should be celebrating his resurrection and eventual return...

Not keep him perpetually on the cross.

Anyhow, Jesus would probably say something like,

Um, didn't I say no graven images... hello? Is anyone home?

Answer 2

They use the empty crucifix is a symbol that Christ no longer is upon the crucifix - Christ conquered death by being raised to life on the third day. It doesn't contradict, instead it shows that Christ and his teachings overcome death, he is greater than even death.

Answer 3

We lay our sins at the foot of the cross. It is only by understand what Jesus endured on the cross that we can be saved. Salvation comes by no other and without the cross there would be no salvation, no Saviour. The cross is one way (and a good one) of symbolising one's faith but there are others for those who do not like to wear a cross. The IXTHUS brooch or badge is one and an empty tomb brooch is another. It is a tiny brooch showing the tomb with stone rolled away. Crosses are becoming less popular with real Christians because so many wear them as a jewellery accessory that they have lost their meaning to most people. I prefer the Ixthus (fish) or the empty tomb personally.

Answer 4

Now that you know the difference between a crucifix symbol and a cross symbol, can I point you to scripture? The New Testament tells Christians to BOAST in the cross of Christ and, also, not to make the cross of Christ void because it is the power of God unto salvation. No Christian can be ashamed of the cross of Christ! But that does not mean to say they must wear one around their neck all the time.

Sadly, many of the wearers of the biggest crucifixes and crosses are the biggest hypocrites. It's like, who are they trying to convince? Many pop idols wear them yet their lives are repulsive due to their flagrant violation of Christ's calls to morality and humility. Some even think that if they wear a cross or a crucifix, this lets them off with having to witness verbally, and by their life-styles. Jesus commissioned his followers to be witnesses of him to the furthest corners of the earth. That requires speaking, writing, and living - not being a jewellery stand.

However, the glory of the cross lies in the way it turns the tables on Satan who probably thought he'd triumphed over Christ by getting him nailed to it. Satan fell right into a trap of his own making. Because Christ died on the cross - the sinless Son of God - he defeated Satan and brought salvation to all who believe in what Christ accomplished on that cross. Christ's resurrection from the dead is the proof that death has been defeated. Yet what is of God, the devil tries to copy, so take care not to be duped by crucifix-wearers that, just because they flaunt the symbol, they must be believers. Likewise, beware those who claim to be Christians but who tell you the cross is pagan. The most devoted Christians are often the ones least likely to wear symbols of the cross but who stake their lives on the victory of the cross.

Answer 5

Jesus preached "Repent for the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand." I think that the anchor would be the better symbol as it was used by the early church. However, while yes the cross is a symbol of death and torture, our Lord died on the cross to pay for our sins. We were bought at a very high price and should always remember it. The cross also fits with scripture in that Paul in many of his writing speaks of the cross and how important the Lords work on it is.

Answer 6

Catholics use a crucifix. Christians use a cross. Both symbolize the great sacrifice made for us by Jesus Christ.

Answer 7

i agree.
drawing attention 2 Christ's suffering could b considered somewhat pessimistic.
but 2 some it is a symbol they recognise & understand.
he suffered a miserable & painful death, 4 us.
i'm different, however.
i don't believe Jesus died on a cross.
it is well documented that the Romans, as with the Celts & Gaul.
used a straight stake 2 crucify their criminals.
but of course that has been reinvented over the years as a cross & adopted by Christians as a icon of faith.

thumbs down all u like the proof is available 2 find on the Net if u bother 2 look.

Answer 8

Catholics wear/use crucifixes because it is a reminder that Jesus suffered for our sins. Protestant Christians tend to use an empty cross to remind us that He is no longer on the cross, no longer dead, but risen. It's not like a good luck charm or that we will get any extra blessings. Of course I dont need to see a cross to remind me, but wearing one may help to advise someone that I might be Christian. Pagans often wear pentagrams or other symbolic art, but its just mostly in letting others know what you believe without having to speak it. As we see, sometimes speaking it, isnt the best idea in all situations right?

Answer 9

Because it symbolises two things - (not death and torture)
1. The great sacrfice Jesus made in order to secure believers entry into heaven.
2. The suffering before the triumph of resurrection.
It reminds us that the battle for evil will be won.

Answer 10

Great question! The crucifix symbolizes the sacrifice Jesus made for our salvation. I suggest you get into a good bible based church and seek out people your age and watch and learn. It will be a tremendous growth moment in your life!
Thank you for giving me a chance to share the love of Jesus with you.
Peace be with you.