Several years ago, there was a movement in America to take the cross out of the churches and, most certainly, take away the steeple. The argument was that the cross could be offensive to some people, which to me is an argument from the pit of hell. Of course, some would find it offensive! The Bible says: “For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness.” (1 Corinthians 1:118, KJV) But, many times when we quote that verse, we forget the very important second part of the verse which says “but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.”
One recent afternoon, I was walking along a new road, when I looked up and saw a steeple amidst a large mountain in the background. I was instantly reminded of the hope of Christ through his death on a cross.
I am often reminded of the hope of Christ as I travel around Korea, for there are many churches with steeples or simply buildings with crosses on top. Each one of these buildings is telling the world that inside the building is a meeting place of a church. It is a joy to see. It brings me hope and encouragement. It reminds me that God is always over watching me and caring for me.
I hope the next generation of Americans will build the next churches, unashamed of the cross. I pray that they will make the cross a focal point of everything they do. I pray that they will learn that the cross is not something to cast off as immaterial.
It is time to bring back the steeples.
Richard Muniz says
Good post, Chaplin. If they’re so afraid of offending people by getting the Cross out, then I sure don’t want to be in that church. If there’s something I’m doing that the cross would offend me, then maybe I better stop and look at my life.