Discussion Jumpstarter
Study leader reference - not a definitive answer
Question 4
David notes that pagans accused Christians of worshiping crosses because Christians sometimes inscribed the cross shape; what does that imply about how openly early Christians used the cross symbol, and how does that challenge modern instincts to avoid symbols for fear of misunderstanding or accusations of idolatry?
Another way to ask: If pagans accused Christians of worshiping crosses because Christians drew cross shapes, what does that say about how openly early Christians used the cross symbol? How does that challenge today’s fear of using symbols because people might misunderstand?
Discussion Jumpstarter
Direct Answer
The transcript suggests early Christians used the cross symbol openly enough that outsiders noticed and mocked or accused them of worshiping it. That challenges the instinct to avoid symbols simply because they may be misunderstood; the early church faced misunderstanding and answered it rather than hiding.
- David says “some pagans were thinking Christians worship crosses because Christians would sometime inscribe the shape of a cross on a wall or something like that.”
- He explains this is “why the subject came up” in Justin’s defense—meaning the symbol was already visible in public perception.
- Justin’s response (as David summarizes) is essentially: you see this shape “everywhere throughout the whole world,” implying Christians didn’t treat the symbol as secret.
- David frames the modern issue as a “mental barrier” for ex-JWs encountering crosses in churches, literature, and sermons—suggesting avoidance isn’t the solution; clarity is.
- He argues the cross is not a pagan intrusion but consistent with early Christian testimony, undermining the fear-based rejection of the symbol.