Should You Wear A Cross?By Steven F. Deaton |
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Wearing a cross has become a popular thing. It is fashionable, with a number of varieties available. There are cross necklaces, bracelets, earrings, rings, etc. The question is, should you wear a cross? The Bible no where gives a command, example, or necessarily infers that those who believe in Christ should wear a cross. In fact, when considered, it gives the opposite impression. The cross was a symbol of shame. It was used to execute the worst non-Roman criminals in Roman society (Mk. 15:27-28; cf. Isa. 53:12). Jesus submitted to it in humility, not with pride (Phil. 2:5-8). The electric chair is a modern equivalent. Would you wear that? Some wear a cross because they want to declare their faith in the Lord. Jesus addressed such in the sermon on the mount (Matt. 6:1-18). The hypocrites took certain actions to let others know they were servants of God. They did it to declare their faith. Yet, the Lord condemns them for such. Others wear a cross because they feel closer to God with one on. Hophni and Phinehas thought that was the case when they took the ark of the covenant out to battle (1 Sam. 4:1-11). It did not bring God any closer to them, nor did it protect them from their enemies. Rather, they died that day on the battle field. Wearing a cross will not bring you any closer to God, nor Him to you. So how may one show faith in the Lord or feel closer to God? Faith is shown by works (Jas. 2:18). These works are not those done to be seen by men. Rather, they are the simple, everyday things one does in service to God and fellow man. Closeness to God is experienced when one humbly submits to His will (Jas. 4:6-10). For a Christian, this may be done in prayer (you talking to God) or study (God talking to you). Non-Christians may draw near to God by being reconciled to Him in one body (Eph. 2:16). This is done in faith, repentance, confession, and baptism (Rom. 10:9-10; Acts 2:38; cf. 1 Cor. 12:13). |
Blessed is the man who listens to me, |
