Seven Last Words of Jesus on the Cross: Meaning and Significance

Words of Jesus from the Cross

Jesus' Teachings and Final Moments

1. Forgiveness (Luke 23:34)

Even in agony, Jesus' focus remained on others. He prayed, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing." This reveals his unconditional, divine love.

2. Promise of Paradise (Luke 23:43)

To a believing criminal crucified beside him, Jesus offered grace and eternal salvation: "I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise."

3. Care for His Mother (John 19:26-27)

Demonstrating his humanity, Jesus entrusted the care of his mother to John, saying, "Dear woman, here is your son," and to John, "Here is your mother."

4. Cry of Anguish (Matthew 27:46, Mark 15:34)

In his darkest hour, Jesus cried out, "Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?" meaning, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" This expresses the agony of bearing the weight of sin and separation from God.

5. Physical Thirst (John 19:28)

To fulfill Scripture (Psalm 69:21), Jesus declared, "I am thirsty." This act, distinct from his earlier refusal of pain relief, highlights his commitment to fulfilling prophecy.

6. Declaration of Completion (John 19:30)

With "It is finished!" Jesus signified the completion of his earthly purpose: his life, suffering, death, payment for sin, and redemption of the world. His final act of obedience was complete.

7. Surrender to God (Luke 23:46)

Jesus' last words, "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit," (Psalm 31:5) demonstrate his unwavering trust in God as he offered his life as the perfect sacrifice.

Understanding the Trinity

God is one being existing in three co-equal, co-eternal persons: Father, Son (Jesus Christ), and Holy Spirit. Each person is fully God, yet there is only one God. This concept refutes heresies like Modalism (one person with three modes), Arianism (Son and Spirit subordinate to the Father), and Tritheism (three separate gods).

Humanity's Creation and Purpose

Created for God's Glory

God, being self-sufficient (Acts 17:25), created us for His own glory and honor (Isaiah 43:7). We exercise free will in fulfilling this purpose.

Distinctive Characteristics (Genesis 1:26 - Imago Dei)

• Moral: Responsibility, conscience, reflecting God's holiness.
• Spiritual: Possessing an immortal soul, capable of communion with God.
• Mental: Reason, logic, communication, foresight, creativity, emotions.
• Relational: Living in community, dominion over creation as God's stewards.

Sin and Rebellion Against God

Definition of Sin

Sin is failing to uphold God's moral law, both in action (e.g., the Ten Commandments) and attitude (heart and mind).

Humanity's Sinful Nature

We inherit a sinful nature from Adam and Eve (Romans 5), placing us in rebellion against God from birth (Psalm 51).

Consequences of Sin

• Broken relationship with God.
• Loss of purpose and freedom (John 8:34).
• Subject to God's just wrath.
• Toil, suffering, and harm to others.

God's Perspective on Sin

God is grieved by human sin and its consequences (John 11:3, 35). As a holy and just God, He judges sin, yet in His love, mercy, and grace, He provides a substitute to bear His wrath.

Characteristics of Sin

Sin opposes truth (lies), morality (immorality), identity (exalting oneself as creator), and reason (meaninglessness).