Summary of "John Hilton III: The Symbol of the Cross: A Bridge, Not A Barrier"

Summary of John Hilton III: The Symbol of the Cross: A Bridge, Not A Barrier

John Hilton III explores the symbol of the cross within Christianity and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), emphasizing its potential to unite rather than divide believers. He addresses misunderstandings about the cross, both as a symbol and in doctrinal interpretation, and encourages a more inclusive and informed perspective.

Main Ideas and Concepts

Misunderstandings of Symbols and Lyrics

Just as children often mishear hymn lyrics, symbols like the cross can be misunderstood or carry different meanings across cultures.
The cross, nearly universally recognized as a Christian symbol, sometimes becomes a barrier due to differing interpretations, especially within LDS culture.

Stories Illustrating Misunderstandings of the Cross

A Latter-day Saint child was uncomfortable receiving a cross necklace because of church teachings.
A student raised Protestant wore a cross necklace and faced assumptions about her faith.
A college student received a note questioning why she had both an LDS institute sticker and a cross on her car.
These stories highlight how the cross can unintentionally become a barrier instead of a bridge.

Historical Context of the Cross in Christianity and LDS

Early Christians, including Nephi and Apostle Paul, revered the cross.
During the Protestant Reformation, the cross became controversial; many Protestants rejected it as superstitious.
In early 19th-century America, most Protestant churches (Methodist, Baptist, Presbyterian) avoided the cross, associating it with Catholicism.
Joseph Smith and early LDS members likely did not consciously reject the cross but inherited Protestant attitudes that viewed it with suspicion.
Over time, the cross became widely accepted across Christian denominations, serving as a unifying symbol.
Early LDS history shows some acceptance of the cross symbol in personal jewelry, funerals, and church materials.
Mid-20th century saw a shift, with some LDS leaders discouraging wearing crosses, though no official doctrine prohibits it.

Doctrinal Clarifications about the Atonement and the Cross

The atonement includes both Christ’s suffering in Gethsemane and his crucifixion; these are not separate or isolated events.
The crucifixion is central to Christ’s atoning sacrifice and should not be minimized.
Church leaders emphasize the importance of remembering Christ’s death as part of the gospel.

The Cross as a Symbol: Barrier or Bridge?

The cross can be a bridge connecting LDS members with other Christians by acknowledging shared belief in Christ’s sacrifice.
Misunderstandings or cultural biases about the cross can create unnecessary barriers.
Wearing or displaying the cross is a cultural, not doctrinal, issue in the LDS Church.
The LDS Church institutionally does not use the cross as a symbol in buildings, emphasizing worship of the living Christ.
However, individuals may choose to wear or display the cross without doctrinal conflict.

Personal and Spiritual Lessons

Reflecting on Christ’s suffering on the cross can bring comfort and healing during trials.
Stories of ancient prophet Enoch and modern individuals illustrate the power of connecting with the suffering Christ.
Recognizing the cross as a symbol of both suffering and triumph enriches faith.
Understanding the history and meaning of the cross fosters greater love, empathy, and unity among Christians.

Practical Applications

Use knowledge of the cross’s meaning to build bridges with other Christians, fostering respectful dialogue.
Avoid judging or stigmatizing those who wear or display the cross.
Embrace the cross as a symbol of Christ’s love and sacrifice, whether or not one chooses to wear it.
Remember the centrality of Christ’s crucifixion in LDS doctrine and personal testimony.

Methodology / Key Points for Understanding and Applying the Message

Recognize the diversity of interpretations of the cross Understand that the cross means different things to different Christians and avoid making assumptions or judgments about others’ use of the symbol.
Learn the historical background Know the Protestant Reformation’s impact on cross symbolism and understand LDS historical context regarding the cross and its cultural influences.
Distinguish between cultural practices and doctrine Wearing or displaying the cross is cultural, not doctrinally prohibited. The LDS Church’s institutional avoidance of the cross symbol does not imply disapproval of personal use.
Emphasize shared beliefs Highlight common faith in Jesus Christ’s atoning sacrifice when discussing the cross with others. Use the cross as a bridge for interfaith dialogue and gospel conversations.
Focus on the atonement as a unified event Teach that Christ’s suffering in Gethsemane and on the cross are parts of one atoning sacrifice. Avoid doctrinal errors that separate these events.
Encourage empathy and respect Support those who choose to wear or display the cross. Avoid stigmatizing or criticizing others for their expressions of faith.
Reflect on the cross for personal growth Contemplate the Savior’s suffering to find comfort and strength. Recognize the cross as a symbol of both sacrifice and victory.

Speakers / Sources Featured

John Hilton III – Main speaker and author of the talk
President Dallin H. Oaks – Quoted on the power of significant talks to change thinking
President Gordon B. Hinckley – Quoted regarding the church’s institutional practice of not using the cross
President Joseph F. Smith – Approved a proposal for a cross monument (later shelved)
President David O. McKay – Wrote about discouraging wearing crosses (private journal)
Elder Bruce R. McConkie – Wrote negatively about wearing crosses
Elder Joseph Fielding Smith – Commented on wearing crosses being in poor taste
Elder Marvin J. Ashton – Encouraged carrying crosses metaphorically rather than displaying them
Elder Russell M. Nelson – Emphasized the unity of Christ’s suffering in Gethsemane and on the cross
Elder Gerald N. Lund – Clarified doctrinal errors about separating the atonement events
Elder Edward Dube – Shared personal spiritual experiences with crucifixion imagery
Elder Alfinzio Boucher – Found hope in viewing a crucifix
Eric Huntsman – BYU professor who shared an interfaith conversation about the cross
Dietrich Bonhoeffer – Historical figure who drew strength from the suffering Christ
Jessica Brody – Modern personal testimony of connecting with the suffering Christ
Richard Bushman – Historian who commented on Joseph Smith’s cultural context

This talk encourages a respectful, historically informed, and empathetic approach to the symbol of the cross, inviting Latter-day Saints to see it as a bridge to other Christians and a deeper connection to Christ’s atoning sacrifice.