Question: .

I hear ministers refer to "coming to the cross," as if it, the cross, is the new mantra. I have a big problem with this because it seems to me that it is flat out idol worship. Is this intentional? I thought we were supposed to come to Christ, who is the ONLY means by which we are saved, the ONLY WAY to the Father?

-Steve

Answer:

Dear Steve,

Speaking of the cross is not idol worship, unless one actually looks to a piece of wood as having miraculous power to save, to atone, to forgive. The cross is used as a metaphor and symbol for what Jesus, the second person of the Trinity, did on it. His atoning work was sufficient and complete for all of our sins. "It is finished" he said, while on the cross - meaning, "the debt is paid" - my debt, yours, all humanities'. Therefore, the cross of Christ is worthy of our attention, and our worship - because He is worthy - we do not worship any created thing, but the God who is uncreated.

An excellent source on the cross - "The Cross of Christ" by John Stott - is available through Plain Truth Ministries for $15.

Hope this helps.

In Christ,

Greg Albrecht