What to do when you are hurt by another Christian: Move from the Cross to Resurrection

By Jeff Arnette     The analogy of moving from the cross to the resurrection is a powerful image in the Christian faith. It symbolizes the transition from pain, suffering, and brokenness to hope, renewal, and new life. This concept is particularly relevant when addressing hurt within the church community.     The cross represents the painful and challenging aspects of the Christian journey. It signifies the moments of suffering, betrayal, and conflict that individuals may encounter in their walk of faith. Just as Jesus bore the cross, believers are called to bear their own crosses, including the burdens of hurt and disappointment caused by fellow believers.     However, the story does not end at the cross. The heart of the Christian message is the resurrection—the triumph of life over death, hope over despair, and reconciliation over brokenness. Just as Jesus was resurrected after His crucifixion, individuals who have experienced hurt within the church can experience a form of spiritual resurrection. This transition from the cross to the resurrection involves several key elements:     Healing and Restoration. The resurrection signifies healing and restoration. It is about finding wholeness and renewal after experiencing brokenness. When individuals actively engage in the process of forgiveness, reconciliation, and seeking God’s grace, they can experience a sense of healing and restoration.     Hope and Renewal. The resurrection brings hope and renewal to individuals who have been hurt. It is a reminder that pain and suffering are not the end of the story. Just as Christ’s resurrection brought new life, believers can find hope and a fresh sense of purpose in their Christian journey.     Community and Reconciliation. The resurrection also emphasizes the importance of community and reconciliation. It encourages individuals to reengage with the church community, seek reconciliation with those who have caused them pain, and actively participate in the body of believers.     Transformation. Finally, the resurrection represents transformation. It signifies a change from a state of despair and bitterness to one of hope and love. Individuals who have experienced hurt can undergo a transformation in their attitudes, outlook, and relationships as they embrace the resurrection message.     In essence, moving from the cross to the resurrection involves embracing the transformative power of the gospel. It is about allowing the story of Christ’s victory over death to shape and redefine one’s own narrative, including the experience of hurt within the church.

- Jeff Arnette preaches for the Central Haywood church of Christ, Clyde, NC.  He may be contacted through the congregation's website: https://centralhaywoodcoc.com/