Today we will talk about what happened to the cross of Jesus. The cross is a significant symbol in Christianity, representing sacrifice, redemption, and love. Many Christians may not fully grasp its impact or what occurred to the physical cross after Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection. Throughout this exploration of Scripture, we will uncover the meanings and historical contexts surrounding the cross. As we meditate on God’s word, let’s allow ourselves to understand the depth of Jesus’ sacrifice and what it has meant for humanity. Join me as we learn about the cross, recognizing its importance and how it continues to influence our faith.
What Happened to the Cross of Jesus
The Significance of the Cross
The cross holds immense significance within Christianity. It symbolizes freedom from sin and the bridge between humanity and God. In Greek, the word for cross is “stauros,” which denotes a stake or pole. In essence, the cross represents the place of Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice for us—taking upon Himself the sins of the world. The Hebrew word for cross, although not directly mentioned, evokes the idea of “tzalal,” which means a shadow, hinting at the overshadowing mercy that God extended to humanity through Jesus’ death.
The historical view of the cross reflects its grim use as a method of execution by the Roman Empire, solely reserved for the worst of offenders. Yet, it is through this instrument of death that God revealed His love and the unyielding nature of grace. In Matthew 27:32-33, we read about Simon of Cyrene being compelled to carry the cross of Jesus, signifying the heavy burden and the beginning of a greater story that leads to resurrection.
In 1 Corinthians 1:18, Paul mentions the cross as foolishness to those who are perishing, but to Christians, it is the power of God. The seeming contradiction of the cross—symbolizing defeat yet embodying victory—shows us that through suffering, greater purposes can flourish. This indicates that while the cross bore Jesus’ physical form in a moment of despair, it also served a divine purpose, bringing humans closer to salvation and eternal life.
The Fate of the Cross After the Crucifixion
After Jesus’ death, what happened to the physical cross on which He was crucified? The Gospel accounts do not detail the post-crucifixion journey of the actual cross, but historical records and traditions provide insight. Early Church fathers suggest that the cross was left in place and later removed, as Jerusalem came under different regimes. According to tradition, Emperor Constantine’s mother, Helena, discovered pieces of the True Cross during her pilgrimage to Jerusalem.
There are accounts that indicate portions of the cross were scattered worldwide as relics. According to ancient tradition published in the 4th century, those relics have been preserved in churches such as the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, which claims to house pieces of the cross. This historical understanding represents the reverence that Christians have for the cross, realizing that it was an integral part of the story of salvation.
Hebrews 12:2 encourages us to look unto Jesus, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross. The legacy of the cross extends beyond its physical form; it is now a monumental reminder of Jesus’ love and sacrifice. The fate of the cross, therefore, lies not in its physical remains but in the continuous impact on lives transformed by the message of hope and redemption it carries.
Symbolism of the Cross in Christianity
The cross, as a symbol, has evolved profoundly through Christian history. Initially, it signified shame and suffering, as seen in the Roman mindset. Over time, the meaning transitioned to one of hope, peace, and love. The Apostle Paul speaks about boasting only in the cross—“But God forbid that I should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ” (Galatians 6:14). This shift showcases the power that emerged from what was once a symbol of death, now reflecting eternal life.
The imagery of the cross represents several themes: reconciliation, suffering, and victory. Through 2 Corinthians 5:18-19, we learn that through Christ, we are reconciled to God. The cross ushered in the new covenant, allowing us freedom from sin and a restored relationship with our Creator. It embodies the love God has for His people, illustrated beautifully in John 3:16, where it states that God gave His only Son for our salvation.
Psalms 85:10 describes how mercy and truth meet, righteousness and peace kiss each other. This beautiful image reflects the essence of what the cross achieves. Sin and death, represented by the cross, meet grace and mercy, resulting in salvation. It signifies the idea that our burdens have been carried and that we can live freely because of His ultimate sacrifice.
The Cross and the Resurrection
The resurrection of Jesus is inextricably linked to the cross. What happened on the cross set the stage for the magnificent event of Resurrection Sunday. Without the cross, there is no resurrection—both events are fundamental to Christian faith. Romans 4:25 highlights that Jesus was delivered up for our offenses and raised for our justification. This reveals that the work of the cross wasn’t complete until the resurrection, showcasing Jesus’ victory over sin and death.
From the resurrection, the symbolism of the cross transforms. It is not just a symbol of death but one of life. In 1 Peter 1:3, we are reminded of the living hope we have through the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The cross that represented death simultaneously paved the way for eternal life through belief in Him. Therein lies the beauty of the gospel—death giving way to life.
The hope associated with the cross is paramount. In 1 Corinthians 15:55, Paul challenges death by proclaiming, “O Death, where is your sting?” This is tied directly to the power of the resurrection. The cross may have marked Jesus’ sacrifice, but the empty tomb signifies our victory alongside Him. Thus, we can rejoice, as our faith in Christ is a promise of what is to come—everlasting life in His presence.
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on what happened to the cross of Jesus, we come to understand its significance in our faith. The journey of the physical cross may be clouded in history, but its spiritual meaning is clear and powerful. We see how the cross symbolizes not only death but also love, hope, and reconciliation.
The story of the cross invites us to consider Jesus’ sacrifice, reminding us of the depth of God’s love and grace extended to humanity. From the ugliness of suffering springs forth the incredible promise of resurrection and eternal life. It is through the cross that we find our true identity as children of God.
In our daily lives, the cross should serve as a foundation for our faith—encouraging us to embrace love, humility, and forgiveness. Let us hold onto the message of hope that the cross represents, sharing this good news with others who also seek truth and healing.
Further Reading
30 Bible Verses About Getting Closer To God (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Removing People From Your Life (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)
30 Bible Verses About Being Lukewarm (With Explanation)
4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4