“The cross should not just be at the top of our theological priority list; it should be at the center of all our theological priorities.“
Theology of the Cross is an article reflecting on the intimate relationship between the Cross and Christian theology. Dr. Burk Parsons, A senior pastor of Saint Andrew’s Chapel in Sanford, Florida, is the author. He writes for the website tabletalkmagazine.com.
A Fear For The Church
Theology of the Cross starts with a look into the mind and heart of Burk Parson. In this opening paragraph, he reveals that one of his “greatest fears” is that Christians will become bored with the crucifixion story.
Paterson points out that the crucifixion is one of the most fundamental stories in the Christian religion. However, because it is so basic, people get tired of reviewing it over time. Consequently, Christians sometimes prefer to work through other theological aspects of the faith that are more unfamiliar and existing.
He also suggests that the pulpit is the first place where disinterest in the cross forms.
“When pastors stop preaching about the cross or mention it only when they have to, the people of God can easily begin to see the cross as a perfunctory matter that only needs to be considered occasionally.”
Burk Parson
Why The Cross Is Vital
After discussing his concerns about the Christian perception of the crucifixion, he dives headfirst into why our perceptions and attitudes towards the cross matter.
According to Parson, the cross is not just an important aspect of our faith. It is one of the most central and vital stories in the whole tradition. To him, the cross is one of a select few foundational events and ideas upon which the rest of Christian theology rests. Like the air we breathe, the cross is an essential element that surrounds and flows through every other theological concept.
In the words of Parson,
“The cross is not only at the heart of our faith, but it encompasses the entire existence of our faith, our life, and our worship.”
Burk Parson
He then builds upon this idea by suggesting that the cross should be a part of every theological conversation and lesson; and that its absence will lower the quality of our theological views.
Why Ignore The Cross?
So, if you’re like me, then at this point, you may be asking yourself something like this. “Okay…. but if the cross is as important as you suggest, why is it not a part of every single sermon and class?”
In the article, Parson says that some preachers neglect the cross because it would force them to also talk about “sin, the wrath of God, the holiness of God, and… hell.” He then goes on to say that some prefer to focus on the love of God as their main message.
I appreciated the fact that Parson addressed this question in his article, although I was a little disappointed by the answer. I thought he could have spent more time breaking down things like the cultural and theological aversion toward discussing uncomfortable realities.
Final Thoughts About Theology Of The Cross
I really enjoyed Theology of the Cross by Burk Parsons. At first, I thought his emphasis on the cross’s centrality was a bit of an overstatement. However, as I thought through the different doctrines and teachings that are connected to Jesus’s sacrifice, I began to understand the validity of his point.
On a personal note, I often study stories and ideas in the Bible without considering their connection to Christ or his sacrifice. This is also true for my Christian life. However, since reading this article, I have been taking the time to consider the cross. And…. I have to say…. The thoughtful inclusion of Christ’s sacrifice has brought new meaning to my actions, religious practice, and study.
Check out Parsons’s blog and the full article.
Thanks for being Awesome!
