Disgust: The cross was the worst form of Roman torture and execution. Cicero called crucifixion “the most cruel and disgusting penalty.” It was so revolting, he even asserted, “The very word ‘cross’ should be far removed not only from the person of a Roman citizen but from his thoughts, his eyes, his ears.”[1] Thus, Paul said the preaching of the cross—that the king of heaven and Savior of the world was crucified—was foolishness to the world (1 Cor. 1:18, 23). The cross was a symbol of horror, indignity, and disgust. But this repulsive emblem become the sign of the Christian faith (1 Cor. 2:2; Phil. 3:18). How so?

Beauty: Jesus made the cross honorable and beautiful by showcasing His Saviorhood there. He went out of Jerusalem to become our sin offering[2] as He bore the cross Himself (19:17).[3] As Isaac bore the wood to the sacrifice site (Gen. 22:8, 14), so Jesus bore the wood. He was numbered with transgressors (19:18) and became one with sinners. Thus, He became the substitute for sinners to save them, even one sinner at the cross (Lk. 23:42-43). He was truly king of the Jews, the Savior King, at the cross (19:19-22), fulfilling what was said of Him by the prophet Daniel (Dan. 7:14, 17; 9:24, 26). He took on our nakedness and shame (19:23-25) to clothe us with salvation (Is. 61:10).[4] Finally, to His dying breath, He set the needs of others above His own (Phil. 2:3-5). He took care of His destitute mother (19:26-27).[5] At the cross Jesus shone forth as our Savior. He beautified the cross and made it our sole boast (Gal. 6:14).

[1] The two quotes are from In Verrem 2.5.165–169 and Pro Rabirio Perduellionis Reo 5.16, respectively.

[2] This seemingly trivial detail was deeply symbolic (cf. Heb. 13:11-12). Cf. also Ex. 29:14; Lev. 4:12; 16:27. Even as the capital crime was executed outside the camp (Lev. 24:23), so Jesus atoned for sin outside the city.

[3] John shows us that Jesus bore the cross up to the city gate until Simon the Cyrene took over (Lk. 23:26).

[4] His was the glory and honor (Heb. 2:6-9) but through His suffering we were brought to glory (Heb. 2:10).

[5] She had no one reliable left for her care. Jesus brothers were unbelievers (John 7:5) who belonged to a culture that had woefully abandoned this biblical duty (Mk. 7:9-13).