Introduction: The Profound Declarations from Calvary
The crucifixion of Jesus Christ stands as the pivotal event in human history, the ultimate demonstration of God's love and justice. From the brutal agony of the cross, our Lord uttered seven profound declarations, often referred to as "the Seven Last Words of Christ." These are not mere utterances born of pain, but divine pronouncements, rich with theological meaning, revealing His character, His mission, and the very heart of God's redemptive plan. Each word serves as a window into the mind of the suffering Saviour, offering comfort, instruction, and a deeper understanding of the immense sacrifice made for humanity's salvation. Let us prayerfully consider these sacred words, etched into eternity by the blood of the Lamb.
Word 1: The Word of Forgiveness
This first utterance from the cross reveals the boundless mercy of Christ, even amidst His own excruciating suffering. As the soldiers gambled for His garments and the crowd mocked, Jesus looked upon His tormentors with divine compassion.
Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots.
This prayer for forgiveness was not just for the Roman soldiers or the Jewish leaders, but for all humanity, including us, who have sinned against a holy God. It demonstrates the very essence of the Gospel: that even in our ignorance and rebellion, God's desire is to forgive. Christ’s prayer sets the standard for Christian forgiveness, reminding believers to extend grace even to those who persecute them (Matthew 5:44). It underscores that salvation is rooted in God's initiative, His willingness to pardon those who confess their sins and turn to Him.
Word 2: The Word of Salvation
Beside Jesus, two malefactors were crucified. One joined the chorus of mockers, but the other, recognizing the divine innocence of Christ, humbly sought remembrance.
And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom. And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, To day shalt thou be with me in paradise.
This exchange is a powerful testament to the immediacy and simplicity of salvation by grace through faith. There was no time for good works, no opportunity for baptism or church membership. The thief simply believed and confessed, and Christ, in His sovereign authority, granted him immediate entrance into paradise. This word assures us that salvation is a present reality for those who truly repent and trust in Jesus. It proclaims that the cross is not merely a symbol of death, but the very gateway to eternal life for all who believe (John 3:16).
Word 3: The Word of Relationship
Even in His dying moments, Christ demonstrated His deep love and concern for those He cherished. He looked upon His mother, Mary, and His beloved disciple, John, standing near the cross.
When Jesus therefore saw his mother, and the disciple standing by, whom he loved, he saith unto his mother, Woman, behold thy son! Then saith he to the disciple, Behold thy mother! And from that hour that disciple took her unto his own home.
This word highlights Christ's humanity, His filial love, and His unwavering commitment to those He cared for. Despite bearing the sins of the world, He took time to ensure His mother's care, entrusting her to John. This act teaches believers about their responsibility to care for family and fellow believers, especially those in need. It also subtly points to the formation of a new spiritual family, where disciples are bound by love and mutual responsibility, transcending biological ties (Mark 3:35).
Word 4: The Word of Anguish
For three hours, from the sixth hour to the ninth hour (noon to 3 PM), a supernatural darkness covered the land. During this period, the weight of the world's sin was laid upon Christ, and He experienced the horrific reality of divine abandonment.
And at the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani? which is, being interpreted, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?
This cry, echoing Psalm 22, is perhaps the most agonizing of the seven words. It reveals the true cost of atonement. For the first time in eternity, the perfect fellowship between the Father and the Son was broken as Jesus became sin for us (2 Corinthians 5:21). This was not a cry of doubt, but of profound anguish, as the holy God, who cannot look upon sin, turned away from His Son who bore the full penalty for humanity's transgressions. This word assures us that Christ fully experienced the separation from God that our sins deserved, thereby securing our reconciliation with the Father.
Word 5: The Word of Suffering
After the cry of abandonment, Jesus, having endured unimaginable physical and spiritual torment, uttered a simple, deeply human cry.
After this, Jesus knowing that all things were now accomplished, that the scripture might be fulfilled, saith, I thirst.
This word reminds us of Christ's true humanity. He was not a phantom or a spirit, but fully God and fully man, susceptible to human suffering. His thirst was real, a consequence of the immense blood loss, fever, and dehydration from the crucifixion. It also fulfilled prophetic scripture, notably Psalm 69. This confession of thirst underscores the reality of His suffering and His identification with human weakness, making Him a compassionate High Priest who can be touched with the feeling of our infirmities (Hebrews 4:15).
Word 6: The Word of Triumph
As the end drew near, Jesus, knowing His mission was complete and the prophecies fulfilled, uttered a triumphant declaration.
When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, It is finished: and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost.
This is not a cry of resignation, but of victory. The Greek word, "Tetelestai," was often used in ancient times to signify a debt paid in full. Christ was declaring that the work of redemption was complete. The Law's demands were satisfied, sin's penalty was paid, Satan's power was broken, and the way to God was opened. There is nothing more to add to His perfect sacrifice. This word is the cornerstone of Christian assurance; our salvation is not dependent on our works, but on the finished work of Christ on the cross. It is a declaration that the ultimate victory over sin and death has been secured.
Word 7: The Word of Surrender
With His last breath, Jesus demonstrated perfect trust and surrender to His Father.
And when Jesus had cried with a loud voice, he said, Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit: and having said thus, he gave up the ghost.
This final word, echoing Psalm 31, reveals Christ's absolute confidence in His Father, even in death. It is a model for every believer facing the end of life, or indeed, any challenge. It shows that death for the believer is not an end, but a transition, a commending of one's spirit into the faithful hands of God. Christ willingly laid down His life; it was not taken from Him (John 10:18). This act of perfect obedience and trust completes His mission, demonstrating His sovereignty even over death itself.
Conclusion: The Enduring Power of the Cross
The seven last "words" of Christ from the cross are far more than historical utterances; they are profound theological statements that encapsulate the essence of Christian faith. They reveal the character of God – His boundless love, His unwavering justice, and His unfathomable mercy. They demonstrate the completeness of Christ's atoning work – His perfect obedience, His vicarious suffering, and His triumphant victory over sin, death, and hell.
From the cross, we hear the cry of forgiveness for the lost, the promise of salvation for the penitent, the example of loving relationship for His followers, the depth of divine anguish as sin was borne, the reality of human suffering, the declaration of a completed work of triumph, and the ultimate act of trusting surrender. Each word, a jewel of truth, shines brightly, illuminating the path to redemption. These words call us to repentance, encourage us in faith, and inspire us to live lives worthy of the immense sacrifice made on Calvary. They stand as eternal testimonies to the finished work of our Lord Jesus Christ, upon which all our hope for eternity rests.