What Did Jesus Say Before He Died on the Cross
Today we will talk about what did Jesus say before he died on the cross. Many Christians do not know what this means. Be on the mode of meditation as we read through God’s word. The final words of Jesus carry immense significance and depth, revealing His thoughts, feelings, and His mission for humanity. Through these statements, we learn about His love, forgiveness, and fulfillment of prophecy. The interactions and final messages shared on the cross not only leave us with glimpses of His divine nature but also remind us of His humanity. His last words echo through time, providing comfort, hope, and a call to action for believers. Join me as we explore the heartfelt expressions of Jesus during His last moments, each holding teachings and insights we carry with us today.
I. “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34)
One of the first statements Jesus made from the cross was a plea for forgiveness directed towards His executioners. This utterance highlights the heart of Christianity and the core of Jesus’ message: love and forgiveness. The Greek word for forgiveness, “aphesis” (ἄφεσις), conveys the idea of letting go or releasing someone from a debt. It shows us that Jesus, even while suffering unimaginable pain, was acting in love towards those who were causing His suffering.
Historically, this phrase illustrates the depth of Jesus’ compassion. He looked upon those who had wronged Him not with hatred or anger but with a desire for their redemption. His sacrifice was not only for the righteous but even for His enemies, fulfilling the prophecy found in Isaiah 53:12, where He bore the sin of many. Forgiveness is not always easy to accept, but it is at the heart of Christian teachings. Jesus reminds us that forgiveness is essential and powerful.
From a practical standpoint, understanding this statement encourages us to practice forgiveness ourselves. In a world filled with conflict and strife, carrying the message of forgiveness can heal wounds and bring reconciliation. As Jesus demonstrates on the cross, forgiveness often requires sacrifice but the rewards are immense. Ephesians 4:32 exhorts us to forgive others as Christ has forgiven us, aiming for a cycle of love and grace that resembles His actions on that day.
II. “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise” (Luke 23:43)
This profound statement was made to one of the criminals crucified alongside Jesus, who acknowledged Jesus’ innocence and asked to be remembered in His kingdom. The promise of “Paradise” resonates deeply with believers, showcasing the hope and assurance that comes from faith in Christ. The Hebrew word “Gan Eden,” meaning “the Garden of Eden,” symbolizes a place of peace and divine presence, indicating the promise of eternal life with God.
This encounter depicts that even at the brink of death, faith can transform a life. Jesus’ response illustrates His authority and ability to grant salvation, confirming that no one is beyond the reach of God’s grace. It ties into the concept of repentance and restoration, seen throughout scripture in passages like Romans 10:9, affirming that belief in Jesus leads to salvation.
The assurance of being in Paradise reflects God’s desire for intimacy with humanity. It reminds us that life with Christ continues beyond physical death, offering us comfort amidst grief. Additionally, it emphasizes that faith does not require a long history or years of righteousness; a sincere acknowledgment can unlock the gates of heaven. We can find hope in Jesus’ words, knowing that our faith in Him assures us of an everlasting relationship with God, reinforcing John 3:16, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.
III. “Woman, behold your son!” and “Behold your mother!” (John 19:26-27)
As Jesus was dying, He took the time to ensure the wellbeing of His mother, Mary, and His beloved disciple, John. These statements reflect the importance of relationships and responsibilities, even in moments of extreme sorrow. In the Greek language, ‘woman’ (γύναι, gunai) is a term of respect, showing Jesus’ care for Mary and emphasizing His role as a son who honors his family obligations.
This moment highlights deep human emotions and Jesus’ love for His mother. Historically, Mary faced a tumultuous journey as the mother of the Messiah, and Jesus’ concern signifies that familial relationships are sacred. By entrusting Mary to John, He was ensuring that she would be cared for, providing a model of love and responsibility in our own families and communities.
This also establishes a new kind of family centered on faith in Jesus. In Matthew 12:48-50, Jesus explained that those who do the will of God are His family. This message reassures us that through faith, believers become part of an extended spiritual family, highlighting the importance of community within the Church. It is a call to love and take care of one another, as Jesus took care of His earthly family.
IV. “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (Matthew 27:46)
These poignant words express Jesus’ feelings of abandonment, echoing Psalm 22:1, where King David cries out in despair. In this moment, Jesus identifies with our suffering and feelings of isolation. The Hebrew term “lama” translates to “why,” a question that resonates with those who have felt distant from God during painful times.
This cry reflects the raw human emotions faced during times of distress. It shows us that Jesus, while being fully divine, also embraced the full experience of humanity, fully absorbing our grief and pain. He felt the weight of sin and separation from God, bearing the penalty for our sins—affirming Isaiah 53:5, that He was “pierced for our transgressions.”
Moreover, it serves as a reminder that it is okay to question and express our emotions to God. The statement invites us to share our feelings of pain, anguish, and abandonment with the Lord, knowing that He understands our struggles and offers comfort. Romans 8:38-39 assures us that nothing can separate us from the love of God, not even our darkest moment. Jesus’ sorrow demonstrates His commitment to journey into the depth of our human experience while inviting us to trust God even when we feel abandoned.
V. “I thirst” (John 19:28)
Jesus’ declaration of thirst symbolizes physical suffering and a profound spiritual truth. The Greek word for thirst here is “dipsao” (διψάω), which denotes an intense longing. This statement highlights Jesus’ humanity—He was fully God yet fully man, experiencing the physical limitations that come with humanity.
Historically, thirst during crucifixion was common, as it involved extreme dehydration and exhaustion. Jesus’ desire for water also signifies the fulfillment of Scripture, in this case, Psalm 69:21, which foreshadows the sufferings of the Messiah. His thirst reminds us of our own spiritual thirst, a longing for connection with God that can only be satisfied through Christ, as seen in John 4:14, where Jesus offers “living water” that quenches spiritual thirst.
This statement urges us to recognize our need for Christ in all aspects of our lives—spiritually, emotionally, and physically. When we feel parched in our souls, we can come to Him for healing and fulfillment. We find that His presence satisfies our deepest longings, encouraging us to turn to Him whenever we feel spiritually dehydrated or lost. Phil 4:19 promises that God will supply all our needs, reassuring us that He is the sustainer of life.
VI. “It is finished” (John 19:30)
With this triumphant proclamation, Jesus announced the completion of His earthly mission. The Greek term for “finished” is “tetelestai” (τετελεσται), which was often used in the context of a fulfilled debt or accomplishment. This is a powerful declaration indicating victory over sin and the finality of God’s redemptive plan. It signifies that every prophecy concerning the Messiah was fulfilled through His life, death, and impending resurrection.
Historically, this moment marked a significant transition for believers. With Jesus’ sacrifice, He established a new covenant, fulfilling the law and opening the gates of salvation to all humanity (Hebrews 9:12). His finished work on the cross means that we no longer need to strive for our salvation; it is a gift freely given through grace (Ephesians 2:8-9).
Moreover, it offers reassurance amidst trials. When we encounter difficulties or feel overwhelmed, we can take comfort in the assurance that our salvation and victory are secure in Christ. This statement encourages us to share the message of hope, knowing that Jesus has paved the way for eternal life and reconciliation with God. We can rest in His completed work and have faith that whatever we face, we are never alone.
VII. “Father, into Your hands I commit my spirit” (Luke 23:46)
This final prayer from Jesus reveals His unwavering trust in God, mirroring Psalm 31:5, which expresses total surrender. The Hebrew term “yad” translates to “hand,” symbolizing protection and guidance. In this moment, Jesus models the ultimate act of faith—releasing His spirit to God as His earthly life came to an end.
Historically, the act of committing one’s spirit to God illustrates the relationship between divinity and humanity—showing that even in His darkest hour, Jesus trusts in His Father’s plan. This reminds us of our own need to surrender our plans and fears to God, trusting that He holds everything in His hands. Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages us to trust in the Lord with all our hearts and lean not on our understanding, assuring us that God will guide our paths.
Furthermore, it emphasizes the importance of our own relationship with God, inviting us to commit our lives and struggles to Him regularly. Jesus’ act of surrender highlights the beauty of trusting God with our spirits, even in moments of hardship. We can find solace in knowing that, like Jesus, we can rest in the arms of our loving Father, secure in the promise of eternal life and hope. Romans 14:8 expresses that whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord, offering us comfort that we are always in His care.
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on the final statements of Jesus, we see a tapestry of love, forgiveness, hope, and trust intertwined. Each of His words from the cross unveils the profound depth of His character and mission. They remind us that forgiveness is available to all, that a sincere belief can lead to eternal life, and that familial love transcends earthly relationships. Jesus’ cry of abandonment invites us to express our struggles while reminding us that He understands our pain. His thirst signifies our spiritual longing and invites us to turn to Him for fulfillment.
Jesus’ declaration, “It is finished,” reassures us that our salvation is completed, and our relationship with God is restored. Finally, His surrender to the Father teaches us the importance of trust in the divine plan, even amid trials. Together, these powerful words encourage us to lead lives filled with love, faith, and grace, embodying the teachings of Jesus as we walk our faith journey.
Let us carry these messages with us, sharing the hope, love, and compassion inspired by His words. Each step forward is a step rooted in faith—a life transformed by the redemptive love of Jesus Christ.
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