What do you associate with Christianity? Most often the cross on which Jesus was crucified is its symbol. Why would such a cruel image become a symbol of Christianity? It’s because it’s the central message. The four Gospels tell the story of how Jesus preached salvation, healed the sick and did many miracles. Many people admired him, but jealous leaders convinced the Roman governor to condemn Jesus to death on the cross even though he was innocent. Jesus “came to give his life as a ransom price for many” (Matthew 20:28). God loved us so much that he sacrificed his own Son, Jesus, to take the punishment for our sin as our substitute, and all who believe receive eternal life (John 3:16).