Originally posted by Trading Tiger:
Originally posted by Cavitybacks:
The cross certainly wasn't used originally as a symbol because of the absolute terror associated with crucifixion. Not exactly something people would parade around with on their neck as jewelry. I believe the fish and dove were 2 early symbols.
Not that any of this is relevant to this thread.
It is relevant, at least two people mentioned the cross, and lack thereof, without having any knowledge of the origin of the cross as a symbol of Christianity. You are correct, it was not only until crucifixion was banned, outlawed, or whatever as a method of punishment/death, but several generations had passed that had not seen a cross in action or the process of crucifixion. And like you said,
the cross is nothing to celebrate, but the empty tomb is. Jesus had to endure the cross in order to pay for our salvation, but the cross did not make him our savior. Lots of people were crucified during those times, the empty tomb is what makes Jesus our savior.