Through Christ’s Cross
Apr 2nd, 2008 by michelle
And when they had brought them, they set them before the council. And the high priest asked them, saying, “Did we not strictly command you not to teach in this name? And look, you have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this Man’s blood on us!” But Peter and the other apostles answered and said: “We ought to obey God rather than men. The God of our fathers raised up Jesus whom you murdered by hanging on a tree. Him God has exalted to His right hand to be Prince and Savior, to give repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins. And we are His witnesses to these things, and so also is the Holy Spirit whom God has given to those who obey Him.” (Acts 5: 27-32)
In the footnote in the New Orthodox Study Bible, there is a good explanation on why the apostles say that Christ was hanged on a tree:
Christ’s Cross is often referred to as a tree, both because it is made of wood and because trees were often used to crucify criminals. There is also a deeper meaning in this term, for just as a living tree brought death to mankind through Adam (Genesis 2:17), now a dead tree brings life to mankind through Jesus.
Father pointed this out about the tree and the garden this past Sunday.
I find that the hymnography of Holy Friday brings out Christ’s hanging on the tree in most vivid terms. I am humbled at his self-emptying.
Lord have Mercy that even a bit of that gets through my thick skull.
What a great site! Do you mind if I add a link on my blog? Thanks so much!