What are the seven last words of Jesus on the cross?

The seven last words of Jesus on the cross are a profound and deeply moving aspect of the Passion narrative, offering insight into His suffering, His humanity, and His divinity. These words, recorded across the four Gospels, encapsulate the essence of Jesus' mission and His final moments on earth. Each statement carries theological and spiritual significance, inviting believers to reflect on the depth of Christ's love and sacrifice.

The first word, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing" (Luke 23:34, NIV), is a powerful declaration of forgiveness. Even in the midst of His excruciating pain, Jesus intercedes on behalf of those who are crucifying Him. This plea underscores the boundless mercy of God and the fulfillment of Jesus' teaching to love one's enemies (Matthew 5:44). It is a reminder that forgiveness is at the heart of the Christian message and that Jesus' sacrifice is the ultimate act of reconciliation between humanity and God.

The second word, "Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise" (Luke 23:43, NIV), is spoken to the repentant thief crucified alongside Jesus. This promise of eternal life to a sinner who turns to Him in faith illustrates the inclusivity of Jesus' salvation. It emphasizes that no one is beyond the reach of God's grace and that faith, even in one's final moments, can secure a place in God's kingdom. This assurance of paradise reflects the hope and redemption that Jesus offers to all who believe in Him.

The third word, "Woman, here is your son," and to the disciple, "Here is your mother" (John 19:26-27, NIV), reveals Jesus' deep concern for His mother, Mary, and His beloved disciple, John. In this moment of agony, Jesus ensures that Mary will be cared for after His death. This act of compassion highlights the importance of familial bonds and the responsibility Christians have to care for one another. It also signifies the formation of a new spiritual family among Jesus' followers, united by love and mutual support.

The fourth word, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" (Matthew 27:46, NIV; Mark 15:34, NIV), is a direct quotation from Psalm 22:1. This cry of abandonment expresses the depth of Jesus' suffering as He bears the weight of humanity's sin. It reveals the profound mystery of the Incarnation, where Jesus, fully divine and fully human, experiences the agony of separation from the Father. This moment of desolation invites believers to contemplate the cost of their redemption and the extent of Jesus' sacrifice.

The fifth word, "I am thirsty" (John 19:28, NIV), fulfills the prophecy found in Psalm 69:21 and underscores Jesus' physical suffering. This simple statement serves as a reminder of Jesus' humanity and the reality of His bodily pain. It also symbolizes His deep spiritual thirst, reflecting His longing for the completion of His mission and the restoration of humanity's relationship with God. This thirst can also be seen as a metaphor for the spiritual thirst that all believers experience and the fulfillment that only Jesus can provide.

The sixth word, "It is finished" (John 19:30, NIV), is a triumphant declaration of the completion of Jesus' earthly mission. With these words, Jesus announces that His work of atonement is accomplished and that the power of sin and death is defeated. This statement signifies the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and the establishment of a new covenant between God and humanity. It is a moment of victory and a proclamation of the transformative power of Jesus' sacrifice.

The seventh and final word, "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit" (Luke 23:46, NIV), is a prayer of trust and surrender. Jesus entrusts His spirit to the Father, confident in God's faithfulness and love. This act of surrender serves as a model for believers, encouraging them to place their lives in God's hands, especially in times of suffering and uncertainty. It is a testament to Jesus' unwavering faith and His ultimate obedience to the Father's will.

These seven last words of Jesus on the cross are not merely historical utterances; they are profound theological statements that invite deep reflection and personal application. They reveal the heart of Jesus' mission, the depth of His love, and the extent of His suffering. They challenge believers to embrace forgiveness, extend grace, care for one another, endure suffering, and ultimately, place their trust in God.

In the broader context of Christian literature, these words have been the subject of extensive theological reflection and meditation. For instance, in his "Meditations on the Seven Last Words," the 17th-century theologian John Owen explores the spiritual significance of each statement, emphasizing their relevance for Christian faith and practice. Similarly, in his "The Seven Last Words of Christ," the 20th-century theologian Fulton J. Sheen offers a pastoral and devotional perspective, encouraging believers to find comfort and inspiration in Jesus' final words.

The seven last words also hold a special place in Christian liturgy and devotion, particularly during Holy Week. Many churches hold services that focus on these words, offering an opportunity for communal reflection and prayer. These services often include readings, hymns, and meditations that help believers enter into the mystery of the Passion and draw closer to the heart of Jesus.

In summary, the seven last words of Jesus on the cross are a rich and multifaceted aspect of the Christian faith. They encapsulate the essence of Jesus' mission, reveal the depth of His love and suffering, and offer profound insights for personal reflection and spiritual growth. As believers meditate on these words, they are invited to enter more deeply into the mystery of the Passion and to embrace the transformative power of Jesus' sacrifice.