We’re surrounded by symbols in our modern world, from the red octagon that commands us to stop to the golden arches that signal our next meal. Symbols have a powerful way of conveying meaning without using words, and the Christian Church has long used symbols to communicate biblical truths and point to Jesus’ salvation. Read on to discover how symbols can still be used in Lutheran schools, churches, and homes as reminders and teaching tools in the faith.
Jesus often used parables when He taught, describing imagery to evoke realities in the kingdom of heaven. Although His followers considered candles, coins, and vines mundane objects, Jesus used them to reveal divine truths. Similarly, we use shapes and objects to instruct and remind us of our beliefs. A Complete Guide to Christian Symbols by Edward Riojas provides this context alongside a collection of more than 600 hand-drawn Christian symbols. The collection of symbols includes imagery from the Old and New Testaments, church history, and the Lutheran tradition.
Symbols in the church have helped convey the Gospel message from the earliest days of Christianity. In an era when literacy was not widespread, Christian symbols like the cross or the fish were used to tell the story of Jesus to believers. Today, these symbols continue to adorn our churches, homes, and personal items, reminding us of God’s promises. A Simple Explanation of Christian Symbols offers an overview of the history of symbols and highlights common symbols relating to Jesus, the Sacraments, and the nature of God. Having the booklet as a reference can assist in teaching Christian symbolism to children or offering an explanation to new believers.
Edward Riojas’s guide and the Simple Explanation booklet can provide an understanding that equips teachers, pastors, and parents to use symbols as a teaching tool. Both show how symbolism can aid when considering the divine, just like how Jesus used parable imagery. Although we cannot fully grasp the mysteries of God’s triune nature, one of the most ancient symbols for God the Father is the Manus Dei, or “the hand of God.” Depicted in various forms throughout church history, this symbol illustrates the power of God as the creator and sustainer of all things. Symbolism also serves as an excellent tool when considering our limited perception of time as human beings. The first and last letters of the Greek alphabet—the alpha and omega—remind us that Jesus is the beginning and end, eternal and unchanging.
These symbols are much more than just art—they are the language of faith, carrying the truths of Christ to every generation. Through them, we can see and remember the story of salvation that unites all believers. Whether you’re sitting in church noticing the stained glass windows or wearing a simple cross around your neck, each symbol points you to the truths found in Scripture. Through these symbols, the church continues to teach, inspire, and point believers toward Christ, just as it has for centuries.