Holy Bible
Luke
23:34
The Seven Last Words of Jesus - A Foundation for Salvation
Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, this morning we gather to meditate on a profound and transformative message: the Seven Last Words of Jesus spoken on the cross. These seven words are not just a historical record; they are the foundation of our salvation and a guiding light for our lives. In Luke 23:34, Jesus spoke His first word, saying, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing”. These words fill us with the spirit of forgiveness and love, calling us to reflect deeply during this sacred time of Lent and Good Friday. The Seven Last Words of Jesus hold the power to change our lives, offering us messages of salvation, forgiveness, and victory. Are you wondering, What did Jesus say about being saved? Today’s sermon will answer this question and more, drawing us closer to the heart of Christ.
First Word: The Power of Forgiveness
The first word Jesus spoke on the cross was, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34). This word reveals the incredible power of forgiveness in Jesus’ words. Even as He endured unimaginable pain, Jesus prayed for those who crucified Him, showing us the ultimate example of love and mercy. He teaches us to forgive our enemies and pray for those who hurt us. In Matthew 5:44, Jesus instructs, “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you”. Imagine the transformative power of this message in our lives! When we forgive, we reflect God’s love and mercy. During this Lent season, as part of our Lent Christian practices, let us commit to cultivating forgiveness in our hearts, following the example of Jesus on the cross.
Second Word: What Did Jesus Say About Being Saved
The second word Jesus spoke was, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise” (Luke 23:43). A thief crucified beside Jesus pleaded, “Remember me when you come into your kingdom.” In response, Jesus offered him the hope of salvation. What did Jesus say about being saved? Through this word, Jesus assures us that even in our final moments, God’s grace can save us. This message is a cornerstone of our faith, echoed in Bible verses about being saved, such as Romans 10:10: “For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved”. If we believe in Jesus and confess Him as our Savior, we receive the gift of eternal life. The Seven Last Words of Jesus remind us that salvation is always within reach, no matter our past.
Third Word: The Responsibility of Love
Jesus spoke to His mother Mary, saying, “Woman, here is your son,” and to the disciple John, “Here is your mother” (John 19:26-27). In this word, Jesus demonstrates His love and responsibility toward His mother, even in His final moments. As a human, He fulfilled the law of God. Exodus 20:12 commands, “Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land that the Lord your God is giving you”. This word calls us to honor our parents and take responsibility for their care. During this Good Friday, as we reflect through this Good Friday sermon, let us be reminded of our family responsibilities and the love we are called to show, just as Jesus did.
Fourth Word: The Cry of Anguish
“My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (Matthew 27:46). In this word, we hear Jesus’ cry of anguish and loneliness. Bearing the weight of our sins, Jesus experienced the moment when the Father’s presence was withdrawn. This moment of separation was necessary for our salvation. Jesus took our place, bearing the curse of sin so that we could be reconciled with God. The Seven Last Words of Jesus show us the depth of His sacrifice, paving the way for our redemption and allowing us to hold God’s hand in eternity.
Fifth Word: The Cry of Thirst
“I am thirsty” (John 19:28). This word reflects Jesus’ physical thirst after hours of suffering on the cross, but it also carries a deeper meaning. Jesus thirsted for the salvation of humanity, longing to redeem us from sin and curse. He became the living water for our souls, quenching our spiritual thirst. The Seven Last Words of Jesus reveal His heart for us, showing that His suffering was for our ultimate good. As we meditate on this word, let us drink deeply from the well of His love and grace.
Sixth Word: The Victory of Completion
“It is finished” (John 19:30). This word is a triumphant declaration of victory. Jesus completed His mission on earth, fulfilling the purpose of His incarnation. He conquered sin, death, and the curse, securing our salvation. The Seven Last Words of Jesus culminate in this moment of triumph, where the work of redemption was fully accomplished. This victory assures us of eternal life and the hope of resurrection.
Seventh Word: The Surrender of Satisfaction
“Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!” (Luke 23:46). With this final word, Jesus surrendered His spirit to the Father, breathing His last with a sense of fulfillment. This word is a message of satisfaction and trust. Jesus returned to the Father’s presence, having prepared a way for our salvation. The Seven Last Words of Jesus give us assurance that we, too, can entrust our lives to God, knowing that He will lead us to eternal life.
Lent Christian Practices: Meditating on Jesus’ Words
Lent Christian practices are a time to grow in spiritual maturity. These 40 days call us to meditate on Jesus’ suffering, cultivate forgiveness, and share the message of salvation with others. During this Lent season, the Seven Last Words of Jesus can transform our lives, drawing us closer to God’s heart. Let us use this time to reflect deeply, pray earnestly, and live out the lessons of the cross in our daily lives.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the Seven Last Words of Jesus spoken on the cross, which have transformed our lives. Through these words, You have given us messages of salvation, forgiveness, and victory. Fill our hearts with Your love and grace. During this Lent season and Good Friday, grant us the strength to meditate on Your truth and live it out. We pray in Your holy name, Amen.
Bible References:
- Luke 23:34 – “Then Jesus said, ‘Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.'”
- Luke 23:43 – “And he said to him, ‘Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.'”
- John 19:26-27 – “He said to his mother, ‘Woman, here is your son.’ Then he said to the disciple, ‘Here is your mother.'”
- Matthew 27:46 – “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”
- John 19:28 – “After this, Jesus said, ‘I am thirsty.'”
- John 19:30 – “When Jesus had received the sour wine, he said, ‘It is finished.'”
- Luke 23:46 – “Then Jesus, calling out with a loud voice, said, ‘Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!'”
- Matthew 5:44 – “But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”
- Romans 10:10 – “For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved.”
- Exodus 20:12 – “Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land that the Lord your God is giving you.”
