Crucicentrism

Crucicentrism is a term used in Christian theology and religious studies to describe an interpretive emphasis on the crucifixion of Jesus Christ as the central event of salvation. The word combines Latin cruci- meaning “cross” with centrum meaning “center,” signaling the idea that the cross is the focal point of revelation, atonement, and Christian identity for believers.

Usage and scope of the term vary, but crucicentrism generally denotes a tendency in preaching, doctrine, liturgy, and art to foreground the cross as the primary lens for understanding Christ’s work. It can be observed across historical periods and tends to be more prominent in certain evangelical and mission-oriented contexts where personal salvation and cross-centered proclamation are emphasized.

Relation to other themes is a key point of discussion. Many theologians acknowledge a balance among the cross, the resurrection, the incarnation, and the Spirit, arguing that a full Christian theology should integrate multiple motifs. Critics of crucicentrism warn that excessive focus on the cross may risk neglecting other biblical themes such as creation, justice, or ecclesial ethics, and may oversimplify the complexity of atonement language.

In debates about soteriology, crucicentrism is often associated with discussions of atonement models, particularly those that foreground the cross as the decisive act of redemption, such as penal substitution. Other models, like Christus Victor, moral influence, or participation in divine life, highlight different aspects of salvation.

See also: Atonement, Cross, Jesus in Christian theology, Soteriology.