Why Don't You Have The Cross?
Why aren't there any pictures of the Cross in your buildings?
I have always considered the cross being worn and displayed as a form of idol. The cross was used to kill criminals both before and after Jesus, so it has no real significance in christianity in general in reality. But I didn't even know that it wasn't displayed in LDS churches. I think this question assumes that we know that crosses aren't displayed in LDS churches.
That is one reason, Konquererz, that we don't use the symbol of the cross. Not only are they not displayed in pictures but there are no crosses on our steeples or other architectural ornamentation. The cross was merely the tool used to execute Jesus Christ, as well as thousands of other people.
Our symbol is the living Christ. Yes, He suffered and gave His life for us, and that is a tremendous, uncalculable gift; but then He rose from the tomb three days later - He was resurrected and lives still! That is what gives us hope that we also will be resurrected and have eternal life.
Roz
Very well-put, FarSeer. I always thought of it like... would I want to hang a tiny electric chair around my neck? He suffered more than physical pain inflicted by other men, suffering that only a god could bear. I believe it's an understatement to use the image of him suffering that way to symbolize his sacrifice for us.
I like the symbol of the cross. I do not go as far as the catholics with Jesus on it but just a plain cross. I feel that it is a symbol of suffering and the fact that someone took up that suffering for me is not something I can easily put aside. I know people may not find the same meanings in things as I do and that is fine. This is a path we all have to figure out ourselves.
If the LDS church has no cross displayed that is fine with me. They have their own way of beliefs and they have their right to believe as they choose. I find it neither right or wrong. I know other christians who do not have the cross displayed either. It does not mean they are more or less christian than any other. It is all a personal choice.