Jesus' Seven Last Words From the Cross

By Khen Lim

Image Source: twoagespilgrim.com

Two things prompted the writing of this article. Firstly we are in the period of Lent. Secondly our visiting pastor Barnabas Boon preached on the subject that is at the root of Jesus' Last Seven Words. It is in this spirit that we should remind ourselves the significance of these words.

These seven expressions are traditionally part of Jesus’ moment of crucifixion and are integral in the four Gospels. In Mark and Matthew, He cries out to God. In Luke, He forgives His killers, reassures the good thief and commends His spirit to the Father. In John, He speaks to His mother, expresses His thirst, then brings closure to His earthly presence.

Much of these words have resonated for centuries not just for Good Friday but have also been the focus of Christological analysis. For some churches, they play a central role in their liturgies.

(1) Luke 23:34 – Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.

Traditionally known as ‘The Word of Forgiveness,’ this is a theological interpretation of Jesus’ prayer to forgive those crucifying Him: the Roman soldiers and all those involved in directly killing Him.

(2) Luke 23:43 – Truly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in paradise.

Known as ‘The Word of Salvation,’ it is the only occurrence in any Gospel of the word ‘paradise.’ The reading assumes the meaning of ‘Heaven’ and a direct passage with no purgatorial implications.

(3) John 19:26-27 – Woman, behold your son. Son, behold your mother.

This “Word of Relationship” thrusts Mary into the care of “the disciple whom Jesus loved,” meaning John. This reading displays Jesus’ humanity and depth of love for His mother and also, John.

(4) Matthew 27:46/Mark 15:34 – My God, My God, have You forsaken Me?

“The Word of Abandonment” should be seen as a cry from One who was truly human and who felt forsaken and that feeling was palpable.

(5) John 19:28 – I thirst.

As the “Word of Distress,” there is contrast with Jesus’ encounter with the Samaritan woman at the well.

(6) John 19:29-30 – It is finished.

This is the “Word of Triumph,” and often seen as a declaration of the end of Jesus’ earthly life and the anticipation of the Resurrection. With plan fulfilled, salvation is now possible.

(7) Luke 23:46 – Father, into Your Hands, I commend My Spirit.

“The Word of Reunion” proclaims Jesus joining the Father in Heaven and they affirm His absolute trust in the Father.