The final words of a person often carry deep meaning, revealing their heart and their deepest thoughts. Jesus last words spoken from the cross are not just words of a dying man but profound statements that offer insight into His mission, His love, and His divine nature. These seven sayings from the cross are recorded in the Gospels and provide a window into Jesus’ heart and His relationship with humanity. Each phrase offers a powerful message that continues to inspire, comfort, and challenge Christians around the world.
Jesus Last Words > The First Saying: “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” (Luke 23:34)
In the midst of His suffering, Jesus’ first words are a prayer of forgiveness. This statement is extraordinary because it shows Jesus’ willingness to forgive those who were actively causing Him harm. He asks God the Father to forgive His executioners, as well as everyone involved in His crucifixion, stating that they do not fully understand the gravity of their actions.
This act of forgiveness is not just an expression of Jesus’ compassion but also a fulfillment of His teaching to “love your enemies” (Matthew 5:44). It is a reminder that no matter how grave the offense, forgiveness is always available. This saying encourages believers to practice forgiveness, even in the face of betrayal and injustice.
Jesus Last Words > The Second Saying: “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.” (Luke 23:43)
This statement is addressed to one of the criminals crucified alongside Jesus. While one thief mocked Jesus, the other recognized His innocence and divinity, asking Jesus to remember him when He came into His kingdom. Jesus’ response, promising that the repentant thief would be with Him in paradise, is a powerful affirmation of God’s mercy and grace.
This saying underscores the theme of salvation and redemption. It reassures believers that no matter their past, they can be forgiven and granted eternal life if they genuinely repent and turn to Christ. The promise of paradise reflects the hope and assurance of God’s love, even in the final moments of life.
Jesus Last Words > The Third Saying: “Woman, here is your son… Here is your mother.” (John 19:26-27)
In His third saying, Jesus addresses His mother, Mary, and His disciple, John, from the cross. Despite His suffering, Jesus takes a moment to ensure His mother’s well-being, entrusting her to John’s care. This act demonstrates Jesus’ compassion and concern for His loved ones, even in His dying moments.
This saying also symbolizes the creation of a new spiritual family among His followers. By addressing Mary as “woman” and referring to John as her son, Jesus establishes a relationship that transcends biological ties, emphasizing the importance of spiritual connections within the Christian community.
Jesus Last Words > The Fourth Saying: “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (Matthew 27:46; Mark 15:34)
This saying, one of the most poignant of Jesus’ final words, is a direct quote from Psalm 22:1. It reflects a moment of deep anguish and loneliness. Jesus expresses a profound sense of abandonment, a feeling that many believers can relate to in times of suffering and hardship.
Theologically, this cry can be seen as Jesus bearing the weight of humanity’s sins and experiencing separation from God for the first time. It emphasizes His complete identification with human suffering, demonstrating that God understands our pain and is present in our darkest moments.
Jesus Last Words > The Fifth Saying: “I am thirsty.” (John 19:28)
In saying, “I am thirsty,” Jesus reveals His humanity. He experiences physical thirst, showing that He was fully human and endured all aspects of human suffering. This statement also fulfills the prophecy found in Psalm 69:21: “They put gall in my food and gave me vinegar for my thirst.”
Beyond its physical meaning, this saying can also symbolize spiritual thirst—a deep desire for God’s presence. It reminds believers that Jesus experienced human needs and understands our spiritual longings.
Jesus Last Words > The Sixth Saying: “It is finished.” (John 19:30)
When Jesus declares, “It is finished,” He is not merely announcing the end of His physical life but the completion of His mission on earth. This statement signifies the fulfillment of all the prophecies, the end of the law’s requirements, and the ultimate victory over sin and death.
For Christians, “It is finished” is a declaration of freedom. It signifies that Jesus paid the ultimate price for sin, enabling believers to have a direct relationship with God. It encourages believers to trust in the finished work of Christ and to live in the freedom that He provides.
Jesus Last Words > The Seventh Saying: “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.” (Luke 23:46)
Jesus’ final words are a prayer of surrender. He willingly gives up His spirit to God, signifying His trust in the Father even in death. This statement echoes Psalm 31:5 and highlights Jesus’ unwavering faith and trust in God’s plan.
For believers, this saying serves as a model of ultimate trust in God. It reminds us that even in our last moments, we can rely on God and commit our lives into His hands.
Conclusion
Jesus Last Words, the seven last sayings of Jesus from the cross offer profound insights into His character, His mission, and His relationship with humanity. Each statement reveals a different aspect of Jesus’ love, compassion, suffering, and victory. As we reflect on these words, we are reminded of the depth of His sacrifice and the boundless grace that He offers to all who believe in Him. May these words inspire us to live lives that reflect His love, forgiveness, and unwavering faith.
FAQs
- What is the significance of Jesus last words on the cross?
Jesus’ last words on the cross provide insight into His mission, His love for humanity, and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies. They offer comfort, guidance, and a deeper understanding of the Christian faith. - How do the Seven Sayings, Jesus Last Words, from the Cross apply to modern-day Christians?
These sayings encourage forgiveness, faith, and trust in God, and remind believers of Jesus’ humanity and divinity. They also provide a model for how to handle suffering, betrayal, and the trials of life. - What is the most profound statement Jesus made from the Jesus Last Words?
Many find “It is finished” to be the most profound, as it signifies the completion of Jesus’ mission and the redemption of humanity. - How does Jesus’ cry of abandonment relate to human suffering?
Jesus’ cry, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” resonates with those who have experienced feelings of abandonment or spiritual darkness. It shows that Jesus understands human suffering and stands with us in our pain. - What is the theological meaning of “It is finished”?
“It is finished” means that Jesus completed the work necessary for humanity’s salvation. It signifies the fulfillment of prophecy, the end of the law’s demands, and victory over sin and death.