Untitled Sermon

The last sayings from Jesus on the cross

Words From the Cross: A Message of Hope and Redemption

Bible Passage: Luke 23:34, Luke 23:43, John 19:26-27, Matthew 27:46, John 19:28, John 19:30, Luke 23:46

Summary: This sermon will explore the seven last sayings of Jesus while on the cross, revealing profound truths about forgiveness, grace, and the completion of His earthly mission.

Application: The seven last sayings remind Christians of the power of forgiveness, the importance of family and relationships, and the assurance of salvation. This sermon can encourage believers in their personal struggles to forgive others, their relationships with loved ones, and their faith in Jesus' finished work on the cross.

Teaching: This sermon teaches that Jesus' last words were not merely a farewell but statements of purpose that reveal His heart of love, the fulfillment of prophecy, and the offering of hope to sinners, emphasizing that these words apply to the believer's life today.

How this passage could point to Christ: Through His final words, Christ fulfills the prophetic scriptures and reveals the depths of God's love for humanity. His sacrificial death illustrates the concept of substitutionary atonement—He took our place, offering us reconciliation with God.

Big Idea: The last words of Jesus on the cross invite us into a deeper understanding of forgiveness, family, and faith, showing how His completion of the law and the prophets offers us hope and salvation.

Recommended Study: As you prepare this sermon, consider using Logos to delve into the historical context of each saying, focusing on the original languages to uncover nuances in meaning. Look for commentaries that discuss the significance of each statement and how they connect to Old Testament prophecies. Additionally, examining different translations may provide insights into the emotional weight of Jesus' words, enhancing your delivery.

1. Forgive the Unforgivable

Luke 23:34

You could emphasize Jesus' example of forgiveness even in extreme suffering, showing how He prayed for His executioners. This can encourage believers to offer grace and forgiveness to those who have wronged them, following Christ's example. Jesus' words, "Father, forgive them," highlight His mission to bring reconciliation between God and humanity, offering hope that sins can indeed be forgiven through His sacrifice on the cross.

2. Promise of Paradise

Luke 23:43

Maybe focus on Jesus' promise to the repentant thief, "Today you will be with me in paradise," as a powerful declaration of grace. This demonstrates that salvation comes through faith, not works, immediately granting eternal life. Emphasize the hope this gives to all who trust in Jesus, assuring them of their salvation and a future with Him.

3. Care in the Crisis

John 19:26-27

Perhaps explore how Jesus, even on the cross, cared for His mother by entrusting her to John's care. This points to the importance of relational responsibilities and caring for family within the community of faith. Jesus models how believers should look after one another, reflecting the heart of God in fostering loving relationships.

4. Cry of the Forsaken

Matthew 27:46

You could delve into Jesus' cry, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" showing His deep anguish as He bore the sin of the world. This cry reflects the isolation experienced in sin, yet also fulfills prophecy (Psalm 22). It highlights Jesus' role as the sacrificial Lamb, experiencing separation so we never have to.

5. Thirst for Fulfillment

John 19:28

Possibly discuss Jesus' declaration, "I thirst," illustrating His human suffering and fulfilling prophecy (Psalm 69:21). Touch on how Jesus fully entered into human experience, which emphasizes His empathy with our struggles and weaknesses. This can bring comfort and assurance that He understands our pain and is with us in our hardships.

6. Finished with Fulfillment

John 19:30

Emphasize Jesus' triumphant declaration, "It is finished," signifying the completion of His mission and the fulfillment of all prophecy and law. This encourages believers to rest in the sufficiency of Christ's work—it is a finished work, assuring them of their salvation and purpose found in Him.

7. Faithful to the End

Luke 23:46

You might reflect on Jesus' final words, "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit," as an act of faith. This signifies His trust in God even unto death and encourages believers to place their lives fully in God's hands, trusting Him in all circumstances. This shows the ultimate submission to the Father's will.