Stoning served a holy purpose, it was the consequence of rebellion that was meant to instill the fear of God into the people of God. Look around and see what life is like when men do not fear God.
“They shall say to the elders of his city, ‘This son of ours is stubborn and rebellious, he will not obey us, he is a glutton and a drunkard.’ Then all the men of his city shall stone him to death; so you shall remove the evil from your midst, and all Israel will hear of it and fear.” (Deuteronomy 21:20-21 NASB)
Stoning was to maintain Law and order under God. Crucifixion is an entirely different matter. It is the curse of God. The cross represents God’s curse. Jesus’ cross was soaked in blood when they brought Him down that day.
“Now if a man has committed a sin carrying a sentence of death and he is put to death, and you hang him on a tree, his body is not to be left overnight on the tree, but you shall certainly bury him on the same day (for he who is hanged is the curse of God), so that you do not defile your land which the Lord your God is giving you as an inheritance.” (Deuteronomy 21:22-23 NASB)
I am disturbed to see it worn as fashion, when Jesus was cursed in my place. It bothers me to see gold and silver crosses, some even jeweled. Costly art and things of beauty created to be admired. What really makes me cringe is seeing the image of His body still hanging on a cross. Is it just me?
The disciples chose a fish, the cross was fresh in their minds. I cannot envision Peter wearing one around his neck. He wore it in his heart. It seems strange to me that shepherds need to wear big ones on the outside. That cross call attention to yourself. when the cross is on the inside then Jesus is noticed. But that’s just my thinking. If I had grown up among God’s Israel they would have stoned me. If not for Jesus I would be cursed. Don’t get me started about robes.
His Family Table 