Purpose of the 7 last sayings of jesus
The seven last sayings of Jesus, also known as the "Seven Words," are the final statements that Jesus made while he was being crucified on the cross. These sayings are recorded in the four Gospels of the New Testament and are considered significant in Christian theology and worship.
The purpose of the seven last sayings of Jesus is multi-faceted:
1. **Forgiveness**: In his first saying, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing" (Luke 23:34), Jesus demonstrates his capacity for forgiveness even in the face of extreme suffering. This emphasizes the importance of forgiveness in Christian teachings.
2. **Salvation**: Jesus' promise to the repentant criminal, "Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise" (Luke 23:43), illustrates the concept of salvation and the assurance of eternal life for those who believe in him.
3. **Compassion**: Jesus' concern for his mother, "Woman, here is your son," and for his disciple, "Here is your mother" (John 19:26-27), shows his compassion and care for those he loves, even in his final moments.
4. **Desolation**: The cry of abandonment, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" (Matthew 27:46; Mark 15:34), expresses Jesus' deep sense of desolation and separation from God as he takes on the sins of humanity.
5. **Thirst for God**: Jesus' statement, "I am thirsty" (John 19:28), reflects his human suffering and physical thirst, but also symbolizes his spiritual thirst for God and the fulfillment of his mission.
6. **Triumph**: Jesus' declaration, "It is finished" (John 19:30), signifies the completion of his redemptive work on the cross and the fulfillment of God's plan for salvation.
7. **Surrender**: In his final saying, "Father, into your hands I commend my spirit" (Luke 23:46), Jesus surrenders himself completely to God, demonstrating his trust and obedience to the Father even in death.
Overall, the seven last sayings of Jesus serve to reveal his character, teachings, and ultimate sacrifice for humanity, and they hold deep theological significance for Christians in understanding the meaning of Jesus' crucifixion and the redemption it brings.
Above is Purpose of the 7 last sayings of jesus.