Chapter 6

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stability we have in Jesus. 3. The symbols of an anchor (doubling as a cross) and a heart symbolize faith, hope, and love.

BRANCH – In the Old Testament the prophets spoke of a righteous branch coming from the house of David (Zechariah 3:8, Jeremiah 23:5). The branch was a messianic reference to Jesus.

A CHILD – A young male child, holding a scroll in one hand, symbolizes Jesus when He was debating with the Jewish leaders in the temple (Luke 2:41-52).

THE CROSS AND ORB – 1. A cross sitting atop a ball, globe or orb symbolizes Jesus conquering all the sin in the world. It is often seen held in the hand of Jesus, either as a child sitting in the lap of Mary or as an adult seated on a throne. 2. The cross and orb symbolize the work of missions taking the Gospel message around the world.

THE CROWN – 1. Jesus fulfilled three offices on earth: the offices of prophet, priest and king. The crown symbolizes Jesus holding the office of king. 2. The crown symbolizes eternal life (James 1:12).

THE CRUCIFIX – A cross with Jesus on it. It is a symbol of the Passion of our Lord. Opinions vary as to how realistic our Lord should appear on the cross. Artists should pay special attention to the sensitivities of the audience who will see the crucifix.

THE DOOR – 1. According to John 10:9, Jesus is the door by which we must enter to have eternal life. 2. A symbol of the door to our hearts based on Revelation 3:20. Jesus stands at the door and knocks; all those who let Him in will receive eternal life.

FISH (Ichthus) – A very popular symbol of Jesus. Each letter in the Greek word for fish (Ichthus) represents a word. “I” = Jesus, “ch” = Christ, “th” = God, “u” = Son, “s” = Savior.

FIVE CROSSES – The five crosses represent the five wounds Jesus received on the cross. This cross is most appropriate when carved into the altar. One cross is carved on each corner, with a larger cross in the middle.

THE FOUNTAIN – A prophecy was made by Zechariah in Zechariah 13:1 that spoke of a fountain springing from the house of David that would bring cleansing for sin. The fountain is a messianic reference to the coming of Jesus.

THE GOOD SHEPHERD – A very ancient symbol, Jesus as the good shepherd is based on John 10:11. When portrayed, Jesus is to be shown as a beardless youth,

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