A literal reference to the cross: It was used as a method of execution as capital punishment, documented in the first century A.D. To the redeemed, a.k.a., born again, followers of Jesus Christ, Who died upon a cross, it represents His defeat over sin and His enemies (John 8:36). The cross is at the heart of eternal salvation; and is the most identifiable symbol in the world. Sermons, songs, and books, both secular and non-secular writings recognize the universal meaning of the cross. Movie and play writers have used the cross to ward off evil forces. It does not ward off evil spirits. It is also not a lucky charm. There is no magic force contained in a cross, no inherent power. It is first a symbol of the atoning death of Jesus, Who died for sin(s). Christ’s apostles wrote extensively about the cross of Jesus. Paul wrote divinely inspired words that address both the gospel message and the cross. The apostle Paul wrote, Not with the wisdom of words nor the enticing words of man’s wisdom (1 Cor. 1:17; 1 Cor. 2:4). He also wrote of how Christ suffered so that the redeemed would be eternally with Him in Heaven. The cross is a symbol of Christian faith. The wisdom of God seems like foolishness to the unsaved world and is misunderstood (1 Cor. 1:18). The cross represents reconciliation. God through His Son, Jesus Christ’s suffering and sacrifice brought those who call Him LORD closer to the Father. Under the teaching of the indwelling Holy Spirit the service the redeemed offer is accepted by Jesus Christ (Eph. 2:16).

The remarkable divine circumstances surrounding Jesus’ death upon a cross set the world in a completely different trajectory. He breathed out His soul according to biblical prophecy. The history of exploitation, slavery, denial, betrayal was just some of the marks pressed into the road to Calvary. God the Father’s shrouded power from His heart through people was the force that pressed upon Christ’s heart and mind to finish the task before Him. “It is finished,” a Greek word (5055. Teleo) means to bring to a close, perform, complete, fulfill a command. Christ had accomplished exactly what His Father had commanded. Christ satisfied God’s justice in obedience, dying for all, to pay for sins of the redeemed. Their sins can never be punished again because that would violate God’s justice. Christ the final sacrificial lamb paid your debt.

Shields of Strength cross necklaces are wonderful symbolic reminders for you or a loved one of the gift of eternal life, hope, love, grace, and mercy.