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Christian Symbols
"Short Series" Teachings by Pastor Dick Helms


Some Christian Symbols


The Cross

Cross.gif (1437 bytes)The Cross is the best know Christian symbol representing Jesus' atoning crucifixion and death some 2000 years ago.

That the Cross has represented the truth of Christ over the centuries is truly appropriate. As the two beams meet to form the cross itself, it was on the Cross at Calvary that God's  Justice met God's Mercy in the atonement, providing the way of salvation for those that believe.

On that Cross the greatest evil in all of history, beget the greatest good in all of eternity.

Praise God that by His Cross we can receive our Crown (salvation).


The Ichthus

Ichthus.jpg (2357 bytes)The Ichthus or fish symbol is probably the oldest of all Christian symbols.

Originally the fish was readily identifiable because most of the Apostles were fishermen by trade and the foremost Apostle was Peter, widely know as "The Big Fisherman." The symbol took on dual meaning as it was recognized the the Greek word for fish greek-ichthus.gif (270 bytes) was an acrostic for Christ's identity as "Jesus Christ, of God, the Son, the Savior".

Tradition has it that in times of persecution a believer would, upon meeting and unknown person, use a stick to draw an arch on the ground. Then, if the newcomer was also a believer he (or she) would take the sick and draw the second arch creating the Ichthus (fish) and thus covertly identifying themselves to one another.

 


The Three Crosses

ThreeCrosses.gif (3201 bytes)The Three Crosses in Christian symbolism represent the work of the atonement at Calvary where Christ was Crucified with two thieves,one on His right and one on His left. (Luke 23:32-33). In this symbol we find the truth of God's grace.

One thief hurled insults and ridiculed Jesus, ultimately rejecting the salvation He offered. His fate was sealed. The other acknowledged Jesus as the Christ and called upon Him to save him. He saw Paradise that very day. Likewise, we all face the same choice with the same consequences. Learn More Here

The Light radiating from the crosses symbolizes the resurrection, Christ's from the tomb 2000 years ago and ours on the Last Day. Praise God that both the Cross and the Tomb are empty!


The Triquetra

triqueta.gif (3118 bytes)The triquetra (from a Latin word meaning "three-cornered") is an ancient symbol for the Trinity. It comprises three interwoven arcs, distinct yet equal and inseparable, symbolizing that the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit are three distinct yet equal Persons and indivisibly One God.

First used as a pagan religious symbol in Celtic Paganism, and still used today by modern day Pagans/Wiccans (as seen in the popular occult theme TV show Charmed), this symbol was appropriated by the Christian Church over 1000 years ago and is today rightly recognized as a primarily Christian symbol.

 


The Pascal Lamb

The Lamb of GodAn ancient symbol of Christ represented as the lamb of sacrifice whose blood redeemed all people. This symbol is seen most often at Easter time, although it is an appropriate symbol through the year. The image is taken from the Book of Revelation, "Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power and riches, wisdom and strength, honor and glory and praise!" (Rev. 5:12)

Because of the preeminence of Christ crucified, risen and coming again, the Lamb of God is one of my personal favorite among the many Christian symbols.

Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ is coming again! Amen and amen!

 



This "Short Series" Teaching may be reproduced without charge and in its entirety for non-commercial and non-political purposes without prior permission from ChristRing Ministries. Copyright © 2004 ChristRing Ministries, All Rights Reserved.

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