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ICHTHUS
Introduction: The fish symbol is often seen as jewelry, lapel pins, bumper stickers, and art. But, what does it mean? From early times it was a sign of Christianity — a secret sign among the faithful during times of persecution and/or a way of indicating one as a Christian by those unable to read and write.*The Greek word for fish ("ichthus") forms an acrostic, where each letter of the word is the first of another word.
I — I (Iota) Greek word "Iesous" which means "Jesus"
CH — X (Chi) Greek word "Christos" which means "Christ"
TH — Q (Theta) Greek word "Theos" which means "God"
U — Y (Upsilon) Greek word "Uios" which means "Son"
S — S (Sigma) Greek word "Soter" which means "Savior"
(I) True religion involves knowledge of a specific man - Jesus. One and only one man, Jesus of Nazareth, brings salvation. More than knowledge of a higher power (12 step programs); the force (Star Wars); universal consciousness (eastern religions) but a personal relationship with an individual who was and is one of us (Hebrews 2:17).
(X) He is the anointed (appointed or chosen) of the eternal God to be our mediator and deliverer (Isa. 61:1; Luke 4:18). Our religion is a response to the overtures of the One, true and living God, who made heaven and earth and all that is therein. Rather than know God, we are known of God (Gal. 4:9). This was the Lord's doing; it is marvelous in our eyes. This is the day the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it. (Psa. 118:23-24).
(Q) He is divine. In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. (John 1:1). And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us. (v.14). His name Immanuel means "God with us". True religion has been brought down from heaven to us, but must maintain an attachment to the unseen God and place called heaven.
(Y) He is God's Son - by the virgin birth (Lk. 1:31,34-35) and the resurrection (Ps. 2:7; Acts 13:32-33). Two proofs that must be believed and accepted.
(S) He saves us from our sins (Matt. 1:21). He fulfills the meaning of His name, "Jesus" and provides in himself the only true atonement for our transgressions -- there is none other (Acts 4:12)
