Cross (Stauros)
σταυρός (stauros)
The instrument of execution — the place where Christ bore sin and death was defeated.
Stauros is the Greek word for cross, originally meaning a stake or upright pole used for execution. Through Christ's death, the cross was transformed from a symbol of shame into the supreme symbol of love, victory, and salvation.
"For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God." — 1 Corinthians 1:18 (KJV)
Key Verses
1 Corinthians 1:18
“For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.”Read in context
Galatians 6:14
“But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ.”Read in context
Colossians 2:14
“Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us... nailing it to his cross.”Read in context
Strong's Concordance
Strong's G4716 — Cross (Stauros) (σταυρός (stauros))
Browse the full lexicon entry and every KJV verse where σταυρός (stauros) appears.
Open Strong's G4716Etymology and Original Meaning
Stauros originally meant an upright stake or pole. By Roman times, it referred to the instrument of crucifixion — a vertical post with a crossbeam. Crucifixion was Rome's most shameful and agonizing punishment, reserved for slaves, criminals, and enemies of the state. The cross was a symbol of absolute humiliation, cursed by law (Deuteronomy 21:23), and dreaded by all.
The Scandal of the Cross
Paul acknowledged, 'The preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness' (1 Corinthians 1:18). The cross was 'a stumblingblock to Jews and foolishness to Greeks' (1:23). A crucified Messiah was a contradiction — Messiahs conquer; they don't get executed. Yet Paul insists the cross is 'the power of God and the wisdom of God' (1:24). God's greatest work looks like His greatest defeat.
What the Cross Accomplished
The cross accomplished multiple saving realities simultaneously: forgiveness — sin's penalty was paid; reconciliation — the barrier between God and humanity was removed (Ephesians 2:16); victory — principalities and powers were defeated (Colossians 2:15); freedom — the record of debt was nailed to the cross (Colossians 2:14). The cross is not one theory of atonement but the convergence of all theories.
Taking Up the Cross
Jesus commanded, 'If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me' (Matthew 16:24). The cross is not merely something Christ did for believers but something believers take up daily. It represents self-denial, willingness to suffer for Christ, and death to self-centered living. Following Jesus means walking the same path He walked — the way of the cross.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the cross mean in the Bible?
The cross (stauros) was Rome's instrument of execution, transformed by Christ's death into the supreme symbol of salvation. It represents forgiveness, reconciliation, victory over evil, and the power of God displayed through apparent weakness.
What does it mean to take up your cross?
Taking up your cross (Matthew 16:24) means denying self, willingly suffering for Christ, and dying to self-centered living. It is the daily decision to follow Jesus on His path — the way of sacrificial love and surrender.
Which Bible verse uses the word "Cross (Stauros)"?
1 Corinthians 1:18 — "For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God" (KJV). It also appears in Galatians 6:14, Colossians 2:14.
Why does the Greek word behind "Cross (Stauros)" matter?
Stauros originally meant an upright stake or pole. English uses one word, "Cross (Stauros)", where the Greek σταυρός (stauros) carries the fuller sense: the instrument of execution — the place where christ bore sin and death was defeated.
Related Words
Related Reading
Continue your study with related content from across our library:
Cross (Stauros) (σταυρός (stauros))
The instrument of execution — the place where Christ bore sin and death was defeated.
Strong's G4716 — Cross (Stauros)
σταυρός (stauros) • The instrument of execution — the place where Christ bore sin and death was defeated.
Cross (σταυρός (Stauros))
The instrument of Christ's death; symbol of atonement and self-denial
What Is the Meaning of the Cross?
Theology & Doctrine
1 Corinthians 1:18 Commentary
In-depth study • The Cross
Biblical Meaning of a Garden in a Dream (KJV)
Intimacy with God, cultivated growth, or Eden restored.
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