Thought-provoking article. Thanks.

However, after some consideration, I don't think I can agree. As has been pointed out already, the power of symbol is most helpful. Especially when we worship a God we cannot see.

In my circles, the cross is used as a representation of Christ, not an object of worship. Do some people take that too far and make it into an idol? Yes. But one can make anything into an idol. Try suggesting turning the seldom-used parlor at my church into a youth activity room and see what kind of response you get.

The Hebrews themselves had symbols. The phylacteries they developed are symbols of keeping the Torah in thought and deed. The fringes on the prayer shawl represent the covenant promises of God. Burning incense (also used in pagan rituals) is symbolic of prayer.

The components of salvation are the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus. Paul said to preach Christ, and him crucified. The empty cross reminds us of that.

The sacraments are symbols too. Taken from Hebrew rituals their meanings are enhanced in the worship of Christ.

The Eucharist is a thanksgiving for the sacrifice of Christ; bread representing his body, and wine representing his blood. Invoking the Holy Spirit makes them the real presence of Christ. At his final Passover Jesus redefined the traditional elements by making them represent his body and blood.

Likewise, baptism is a conversion rite taken from Hebrew ritual. When a Gentile converted to Judaism, that person was immersed in a mikveh, representing death to the old and resurrection into the new faith and nation. That person was said to be "born anew" (the same language Jesus used with Nicodemus). Baptism is a symbol and at the same time a means of grace, initiating one into the kingdom.

So while you make many excellent points, I'm not ready to throw out the cross. While I'm not for trivializing its use, I do see the importance of looking at a cross to see the Jesus I cannot otherwise see. It does not replace him, but it keeps him in proper perspective.

Thanks again and God bless.

The Lord be with you ...