Symbols of the Gospel

ΙΧΘΥΣ — “Fish” Greek for fish and an early Christian confession of faith. Each letter forms an acronym: Jesus Christ God Son Savior.

The Secret Fish Sign During persecution, Christians used the fish as a secret way to identify one another. One person drew an arc in the sand. If the other person was a believer, they completed the opposite arc — forming the fish symbol. This silent action declared shared faith in Jesus Christ.

The Chariot Wheel Formed by overlaying the letters of ΙΧΘΥΣ. This too was a secret symbol, marking places where Christians met, prayed, or found refuge.

The Fish in Jesus’ Ministry Fish appear throughout Jesus’ life and ministry: the calling of fishermen, the feeding of the 5,000, Peter’s temple tax coin, and Jesus preparing fish after His resurrection.

The Cross Represents Christ’s death for our sins and His resurrection. The sign above the cross read, “Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews,” written in Aramaic, Latin, and Greek.

The Crown of Thorns Symbolizes the suffering Jesus bore for the sins of the world and the victory accomplished through His resurrection.

The Burlap Background Represents humility, repentance, and the “poor in spirit.” Sackcloth in Scripture symbolizes mourning, turning from sin, and seeking God’s mercy.

The Gospel Message Though human freewill led us into sin, Jesus Christ died and rose again to restore us to God. Whoever believes in Him receives eternal life.