Fishy Christianity

Some Christians in the early Christian church used a fish symbol to identify themselves to other Christians. The symbol was simple – two arcs draw to make a fish.

Some think this symbol originated during Roman persecution. It was subtle sign given to other Christians to identify each other during the such tough times. Others think that the fish was used to share their faith – the ancient greek word for fish was ΙΧΘΥΣ and this is a perfect word that can be used as an acrostic to share the Christian faith  “ησοῦς Χριστός, Θεοῦ Υἱός, Σωτήρ” which translates ‘Jesus Christ, Son of God, Saviour’.  I also think that the fish symbolises Christianity well, but for different reasons inspired by the salmon.

Salmon are anadromous fish – a saltwater fish that, when mature, migrate up freshwater streams to spawn.  I have always admired the way salmon strive against the rivers, rapids, and predators to reach their goal.  Their goal to reproduce, to make more salmon.

Christians are like salmon in many ways. When we are mature we become concerned with reproducing our faith. We swim against the flow of popular opinion, we strive against the culture around us , we bypass enemies all for one goal – to make more Christians.  To be a Christian is to swim in a different direction from those around us. To be a Christian is to live the present with the end in mind.

live your life in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ…

standing firm in one spirit, striving side by side with one mind for the faith of the gospel,

and are in no way intimidated by your opponents.

(Philippians 1:27-28)

Denis Oliver