Did Jesus as God Create the Cross He Was Crucified On?
From the perspective of biblical theology, God is the creator of all things, including the very cross upon which Jesus was crucified.
The Divine Impact of Crucifixion
Crucifixion, historically, was one of the most brutal and humiliating modes of execution in ancient times. Originating with the Assyrians and Babylonians and later adopted by the Persians, Romans, and Phoenicians, this method of execution was rarely used by pre-Hellenic Greeks. The Romans perfected crucifixion for nearly five centuries until its abolition by Constantine I in the 4th century AD. Crucifixion was reserved primarily for slaves, disgraced soldiers, Christians, and foreigners, very rarely for Roman citizens.
The crucifixion process was ghastly, with death typically occurring between six to forty-eight hours, depending on the condition of the individual before the crucifixion and numerous other factors. The victim endured severe physical trauma, including scourging, beating, and the eventual asphyxiation due to impaired respiratory movement. Deliberate actions like breaking the bones or even the use of a spear to pierce the heart contributed to a swift, but agonizing, demise.
Divine Creation or Human Tool?
While God created everything that exists, including the cross, the use of the cross as a tool for crucifixion illustrates the contrast between divine intention and human purpose. The wood used for the cross was a natural material created by God, and it was ultimately shaped and manipulated by human hands. This scenario underscores the idea that even the most tragic aspects of human history can have divine origins. Indirectly, God is responsible for everything, but the tools and actions resulting from these origins are instances of human application.
Deepening this discussion, some argue that the crucifixion of Jesus can be seen as a fulfillment of God’s plan, despite the brutal method. In this view, the cross, a symbol of sin and sacrifice, became the means by which redemption and forgiveness were offered to humanity.
My Perspective on the Cross’s Origin and Purpose
While acknowledging that God, being omnipotent, was aware of His son’s crucifixion and the creation of the cross, we must also consider the broader implications of evil and humanity’s free will. Some, including those who believe in the existence of evil and the devil, might argue that the cross, a deadly instrument of execution, is a tool used by humanity under the influence of evil spirits. This perspective, while controversial, highlights the interplay between divine providence and the actions of humanity.
Despite the brutal nature of crucifixion and its use, it serves a greater purpose through the redemptive sacrifice of Jesus Christ. The mortification of the cross became a poignant symbol of atonement and salvation, transforming a tool of torture into a means of redemption and hope.
Conclusion
In summary, whether the cross was created by Jesus or used by Him as a god, the crucifixion of Jesus serves as a powerful symbol of divine love and sacrifice. The cross, a symbol of suffering and redemption, encapsulates the profound themes of human suffering, divine providence, and the offering of salvation. Understanding the cross in this context enables us to reflect on the complexities of human experience within the framework of divine intention.