Should non-Christians wear crosses? The truth is, there’s no right or wrong answer, and everyone has an opinion.
Chances are, if you’re a believer, you’ve worn a cross necklace, placed a cross emblem on your car, or hung the perfect piece of cross artwork in your home. Even if you’re not a Christian, you know what a cross looks like.
Have you ever considered whether crosses should be kept within Christian culture?
Let’s look at both sides of the argument so you can decide for yourself.
Some Say: Crosses Are a Family Heirloom
The reasons behind wearing a cross can be deeply sentimental. For some, it’s not a spiritual symbol but a beloved memento of a Christian loved one.
Others received cross pendants in honor of fallen army and navy veterans. The American Army gives the Distinguished Service Cross to veterans of extraordinary bravery. Proud family members often wear these gifts to help their soldier’s legacy live on.
Some sport crosses to pacify an overprotective family member. For example, the St. Benedict cross is a popular family heirloom that, for many, doubles as a guardian angel.
Some Say: Jesus Loves Everyone
A passive argument arose when someone from a popular social media platform asked if non-Christians should wear crosses.
One user quickly pointed out that anyone can wear a cross because Jesus loves everyone. The Bible repeatedly tells us that part of this statement is true.
John 3:16 says,
“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
When we read that verse, there’s no denying that Jesus does, in fact, love everyone.
Those who fall under this argument believe that because Jesus’ love is inclusive, Christian symbols should also be.
Some Say: Crosses Are a Fashion Statement
Does every cross-wearer understand its symbolism? It may be hard to believe, but some people wear crosses because they like the aesthetic.
In the 1990s, gothic fashion took over the world, with its biggest claim to fame being the shock factor. Stars like Madonna wore crosses as a fashion statement, much to the disapproval of the Christian church.
Today, that trend continues, with singers like Lady Gaga incorporating crosses into their costumes and stage sets. We also see modern punk trendsetters wearing cross necklaces, T-shirts, and earrings.
Some Say: No One Should Wear a Cross
The Bible states in Exodus 20:4,
“Do not make an idol for yourself, whether in the shape of anything in the heavens above or on the earth below or in the waters under the earth.”
Some take this verse literally and believe that wearing a cross is a sign of idolatry. These debaters worry that the cross has become more important than the person associated with the cross.
One user said, “Crosses have become an idol. Jesus isn’t on the cross; He is in Heaven.”
Others believe this is a murky argument, as the cross is not a literal image of Christ.
Some Say: Wearing Crosses Shows Disrespect
Crosses are usually worn respectfully, but can they be used as an act of rebellion?
In rare instances, wearing a cross can be a sign of disrespect. Some wearers may sport a cross pendant to “buck the system” or show their disregard for Christianity.
This trend is seen throughout pop culture, where stars often turn the cross upside down or sideways. We also see this in music videos, where singers dance on a burning cross while wearing a cross pendant or clothing with crosses.
One person commented,
“You don’t have to like Christianity, but there’s no reason to wear a symbol of it then. It’s ridiculous and unnecessarily disrespectful. Also; why would you want to wear a symbol of something you don’t believe in or agree with?”
Some Say: Crosses Weren’t Always Christian
In modern culture, crosses symbolize Christianity, but there was a time when crosses weren’t distinctly Christian.
Ancient Egyptians created a cross outline topped by a circle. The Ankh was worn to symbolize life and was connected to Sekhet, the goddess of medicine.
Crosses were also used throughout Celtic history as a sign of paganism. These crosses were used in ritualistic sun worship ceremonies and were associated with Odin, a mythical Norse God.
Some Say: Who Cares What Someone Wears
Should we even care what someone wears? A surprising majority of people say they don’t care who wears a cross.
One user commented,
“I couldn’t care less. People can wear whatever they want. I do think it’s a bit strange to wear something from a religion you don’t follow. I wouldn’t do it, but hey maybe they just liked how it looks.”
With more important things happening in the world, many people say they don’t have time to focus on trivial matters. After all, in light of eternity, does the jewelry we choose really make a difference?
Some Say: Crosses Don’t Show Heart Motives
Others are more concerned with the heart motive behind those who choose to wear crosses, putting the focus back on Christians.
This argument asks us to ponder whether the Christians sporting crosses show Christ-like traits. Are they demonstrating the fruits of the spirit by being loving, kind, joyful, self-controlled, and patient?
The Bible says in 1st Samuel 16:7,
“But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look at his appearance or stature because I have rejected him. Humans do not see what the Lord sees, for humans see what is visible, but the Lord sees the heart.”
This verse tells us to look beyond what someone wears and examine their character. After all, a tree is known by its fruit.
Some Say: Some Crosses Aren’t Associated With Christianity
Not all crosses are Christian symbols. For example, fantasy fanatics wear medieval-style crosses to ward off vampires.
The Greek cross, called the Tau, is worn in remembrance of St. Andrew, an early Christian martyr. Historians may wear the Babylonian cross, which represents the mythical god Tammuz. Upside-down crosses are connected to paganism, proving that people wear crosses for various reasons.
Crosses aren’t always Christian, so the argument can be made that non-believers can wear them too.
Some Say: Crosses Can Be a Way to Witness
Many believe God can use anything for good, even a cross worn by an unbeliever.
One user comments, “It’s a weird choice on their part. But I’d rather use it as an in for a Gospel conversation than be offended by it.”
People with a heart for evangelism argue that crosses can be a great way to witness to others, even if their motives aren’t pure.
Another person said, “I don’t mind it, maybe it will start a conversation that could plant a seed.”
This glass-half-full approach removes the focus from judging others and puts the spotlight on sharing God’s love.
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Unfortunately, many of the so-called “Christian” behaviors we see online aren’t actually biblical at all.
Here are 10 all-too-common behaviors that give Christianity a bad name.
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