The Cross

The cross holds profound symbolic significance for Christians, representing themes such as freedom from sin, liberty, and God's love, and evoking strong feelings of gratitude, homage, and peace. Shawn emphasizes that for born-again Christians, the cross is not just a symbol of Jesus's physical death, but a pivotal emblem of their spiritual transformation, prompting reflection and praise for Jesus, contrasting with its less prominent role in LDS traditions due to differing interpretations and understanding.

The cross is not only a historical symbol of Jesus Christ's crucifixion, represented by various forms like the Tau and Latin Cross, but also a powerful metaphor for the afflictions and challenges believers must bear as part of their faith journey, as highlighted in passages like Luke 9:28 and Romans 6:6. In contrast to some doctrinal interpretations, the teachings emphasize that true reconciliation with God was achieved through Jesus' public suffering and death on the cross, underscoring its significance as the ultimate emblem of faith and salvation, rather than focusing on alternate locations or events like the Garden of Gethsemane.

Through the sacrifice of Christ on the cross, peace was made, reconciliation occurred, and the burden of fulfilling ordinances was removed, signifying the completion of God's intentions and making us one with Him. This act, akin to a mother's scarred hands from saving her child, transforms the cross from a symbol of death into a beautiful representation of love and salvation.