Today we will talk about what did Jesus say on the cross before he died. Many Christians do not know what this means. Be on the mode of meditation as we read through God’s word. The words spoken by Jesus during His crucifixion are both powerful and significant. They reveal His humanity, His identity as the Son of God, and His fulfillment of prophecy. These seven sayings encapsulate His mission, His love for humanity, and His ultimate sacrifice. Understanding what Jesus said, and the deeper meanings behind those words, can strengthen our faith and provide insight into God’s character. So, let’s open our hearts and minds to reflect on these final words.
What did Jesus say on the cross before he died
1. “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.” (Luke 23:34)
When Jesus uttered the words “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do,” He exemplified His extraordinary compassion and love even amid suffering. Here, Jesus addressed God the Father, asking for forgiveness for those who were crucifying Him—those who were nailing His hands and feet to the cross. The Greek word for “forgive,” aphes, implies letting go or releasing. This request was not based on the merit of the soldiers but rather on the divine nature of Jesus’ love for humanity. As He hung there in agony, He chose to focus on their ignorance rather than their actions. This moment is insightful because it shows how forgiveness transcends human judgment; even in pain, Jesus modeled grace.
In terms of historical perspective, this statement was a shocking example of mercy. The Roman soldiers, who were executing Jesus, might not have recognized the significance of their actions. They were merely fulfilling orders, but Jesus’ pleading for their forgiveness conveyed a message of divine love that crosses the borders of human animosity. This saying also echoes Isaiah 53:6, which says, “All we like sheep have gone astray,” highlighting that humanity often strays from understanding God’s path. By forgiving those who caused Him pain, Jesus established His role as the ultimate intercessor for humanity.
(Luke 23:34; Isaiah 53:6; Romans 5:8; Matthew 5:44; Ephesians 4:32; Colossians 3:13; John 15:13; 1 John 2:1; Proverbs 10:12; 2 Corinthians 5:19)
2. “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.” (Luke 23:43)
In this moment of deep sorrow, Jesus spoke to one of the criminals crucified beside Him, promising him immediate access to Paradise. The Greek word for “Paradise,” paradeisos, generally depicted a place of bliss or heaven. This declaration underscores the truth that salvation is available to all, regardless of life circumstances or past mistakes. Jesus demonstrated that a sincere moment of repentance can lead to redemption. This criminal’s humility and recognition of Jesus as the Messiah led to his salvation even at the last moment of life.
This saying also reveals the nature of God’s mercy. While the man had lived a life of wrongdoing, Jesus’ assurance shows that faith can flourish in the unlikeliest of conditions. The historical view of crucifixion places the condemned in a position of utter despair, yet here, with bleeding hands and a crown of thorns, Jesus proclaims the hope of heaven. This speaks volumes about God’s character; He desires that no one be lost but that everyone come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9). This moment illustrates the fundamental Christian belief that Jesus saves us when we turn to Him in faith.
(Luke 23:43; 2 Peter 3:9; John 3:16; Ephesians 2:8-9; Romans 10:9-10; Luke 19:10; Revelation 2:7; Mark 2:17; Isaiah 25:8; John 14:2)
3. “Woman, behold your son! … Behold your mother!” (John 19:26-27)
In one of His final moments, Jesus entrusted the care of His mother Mary to the disciple John, saying, “Woman, behold your son! … Behold your mother!” This statement reflects Jesus’ concern for His family amidst His suffering. The Hebrew culture placed great importance on familial duty and care, so this gesture highlights the love and responsibility He felt, not just as the Son of God, but as a son devoted to His mother. The act of appointing John as Mary’s caretaker is significant because it ties into the broader theme of community within the body of Christ.
The phrase indicates a friendly and familial bond that Jesus wanted to cultivate amongst His followers. Jesus was establishing a new family dynamic based on faith and love that would include all believers, coming together to support one another. This highlights the essence of Christian living: to care for one another. The implications are also profound in modern Christendom; we are called to look after those in need, especially within our faith community. The historical significance here reverberates through centuries, reminding us that genuine love often manifests in practical acts of care.
(John 19:26-27; Mark 3:34-35; Acts 2:44-47; 1 John 4:7; Galatians 6:2; Romans 12:10; Ephesians 4:16; Matthew 25:40; Colossians 3:12-14; 1 Timothy 5:8)
4. “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (Matthew 27:46, Mark 15:34)
In a moment of excruciating agony, Jesus cried out, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” This poignant question reveals the depth of Jesus’ suffering—both physical and spiritual. He quoted Psalm 22, a prophetic psalm that echoes His feelings of abandonment in His darkest hour. The Hebrew word for “forsaken” can imply a withdrawal that brings about feelings of desolation, further deepening the pain of Jesus’ crucifixion and highlighting the weight of the sins carried by humanity at that moment.
This cry reflects not just anguish but a deep expression of His human experience. It signifies the moment when Jesus, bearing the weight of all sin, felt the separation from God that sin causes. This moment is central in understanding Christ’s work on the cross; He became the sacrificial lamb, taking on the consequences of our transgressions (Isaiah 53:5). The historical significance of this statement is monumental—it confirms the prophesied suffering of the Messiah and underscores the concept that Jesus experienced the full extent of human emotion, including abandonment. Yet, despite the heaviness of these words, they remind us that God’s love runs deeper than our darkest hours.
(Matthew 27:46; Mark 15:34; Psalm 22:1; Isaiah 53:5; Romans 3:23; 1 Peter 2:24; John 10:18; Galatians 3:13; Hebrews 2:9; 1 John 1:9)
5. “I thirst.” (John 19:28)
Simply stating “I thirst,” Jesus conveyed His physical suffering and humanity. This statement might appear straightforward, yet it encapsulates a powerful truth. The Greek word for “thirst” is dipsao, which signifies a deep longing for water. This profound expression served dual purposes: it signifies His physical need and metaphorically indicates the thirsting of spiritual fulfillment. In His moment of pain, Jesus showed us the significance of acknowledging our needs—both physical and spiritual.
This utterance fulfills prophetic scripture as well (Psalm 69:21), illustrating that the events surrounding Jesus’ crucifixion were intertwined with Biblical prophecy. The historical interpretation also reminds us about the humanity of Jesus—fully divine yet fully human. It creates a connection with our struggles. When we feel parched—whether spiritually or emotionally—He understands the depths of that longing. This moment invites us to bring our thirsts before God, knowing He can provide spiritual refreshment (John 4:14). It encourages us to seek Him, especially in our hardest times.
(John 19:28; Psalm 69:21; Revelation 21:6; Matthew 5:6; Isaiah 55:1; John 4:14; 1 Peter 5:7; Matthew 11:28-30; Psalm 42:1; Philippians 4:19)
6. “It is finished.” (John 19:30)
When Jesus declared “It is finished,” He announced the completion of His work of redemption. The Greek word used is tetelestai, which translates to the idea of something being brought to completion or fulfillment. This declaration indicates that the payment for sin had been made in full; every prophecy regarding His sacrificial role had been fulfilled.
Historically, this moment represents a significant act of liberation for humankind. The impact of this statement cannot be overstated; it signifies freedom from the bondage of sin and establishes a new covenant between God and humanity. By dying for our sins, Jesus paved the way for reconciliation with God, erasing the debt we owe (Colossians 2:14). The enormity of this proclamation ignites hope in us that our lives are not defined by our shortcomings but rather by what Jesus accomplished. He conquered death and made way for everlasting life—this is the core of our Christian faith!
(John 19:30; Colossians 2:14; 1 Peter 3:18; Hebrews 10:12; Romans 5:1; 1 Corinthians 15:57; Galatians 2:20; Revelation 5:9; Ephesians 1:7; 2 Corinthians 5:17)
7. “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!” (Luke 23:46)
The final saying of Jesus, “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!” demonstrates trust in God amidst distress. This expression reveals the close relationship Jesus had with His Father. By committing His spirit into God’s hands, He showcases ultimate faith and surrender. The Hebrew culture valued the concept of placing one’s life in God’s care, linking this statement back as a trust response to God’s Plan, fulfilling Psalm 31:5.
This moment also invites us to reflect on our own lives—are we committing our spirits, our challenges, our fears, our hopes, and our dreams to God? In this declaration, Jesus encourages us to let go and fully trust in God’s will, especially in trying times. It emphasizes that surrender is not defeat but an act of faith. The historical viewpoint reiterates that Jesus presented His life back to the Father, marking the completion of His earthly journey while signaling the beginning of new life for all believers.
(Luke 23:46; Psalm 31:5; John 17:1; Romans 14:8; 1 Thessalonians 4:14; Hebrews 12:2; Philippians 1:21; John 10:30; Acts 7:59; Revelation 14:13)
Final Thoughts
Reflecting on the last words of Jesus on the cross enriches our understanding of love, sacrifice, and forgiveness. Each statement reveals aspects of His heart and mission. From seeking forgiveness for His executioners to promising paradise to the repentant criminal, we see a character full of grace and mercy. His care for His mother shows the importance of community, while His cries of abandonment express the depth of human suffering—demonstrating His humanity.
When He simply said, “I thirst,” it reminded us of both physical and spiritual needs we all experience. The proclamation, “It is finished,” highlights the completion of our salvation—a monumental moment of hope for believers. Finally, His last declaration, surrendering His spirit, teaches us how to trust God wholly. These powerful words serve as a beautiful testament to everything that Jesus accomplished on our behalf.
As we ponder these last words of Christ, let’s remember the significance of each message. They encourage us to live lives of faith, mercy, and generosity. May these final sayings continue to inspire us in our relationship with God and others as we strive to carry His love into the world.
Further Reading
30 Bible Verses About Getting Closer To God (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Removing People From Your Life (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)
30 Bible Verses About Being Lukewarm (With Explanation)
4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4