The Definition of the word Cross

Cross

In the New Testament the instrument of crucifixion, and hence used for the crucifixion of Christ itself (Eph. 2:16; Heb. 12:2; "1 Cor. 1:17, 18; Gal. 5:11; 6:12, 14; Phil. 3:18). The word is" also used to denote any severe affliction or trial (Matt. 10:38; 16:24; Mark 8:34; 10:21). "The forms in which the cross is represented are these: "1. The crux simplex (I), a "single piece without transom." "2. The crux decussata (X), or St. Andrew's cross. "3. The crux commissa (T), or St. Anthony's cross. "4. The crux immissa (t), or Latin cross, which was the kind of "cross on which our Saviour died. Above our Lord's head, on the" "projecting beam, was placed the "title." (See [134]CRUCIFIXION.)" "After the conversion, so-called, of Constantine the Great (B.C. "313), the cross first came into use as an emblem of" Christianity. He pretended at a critical moment that he saw a "flaming cross in the heavens bearing the inscription, "In hoc" "signo vinces", i.e., By this sign thou shalt conquer, and that" on the following night Christ himself appeared and ordered him to take for his standard the sign of this cross. In this form a "new standard, called the Labarum, was accordingly made, and" borne by the Roman armies. It remained the standard of the Roman army till the downfall of the Western empire. It bore the "embroidered monogram of Christ, i.e., the first two Greek" "letters of his name, X and P (chi and rho), with the Alpha and" Omega. (See [135]A.)