Monday, April 06, 2009
FROM THE CROSS
SPOKEN FROM THE CROSS
John 19: 17-30
INTRO: As we hear what Jesus said from the cross, we need to remember that Jesus was in control. In John 10:18, He said that He lays down His life of His own initiative. In John 12:27, He said it was for this purpose that He came.
FIRST WORD OF FORGIVENESS
"Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing." (Luke 23:34)
Forgive whom? Soldiers? Priests? Crowd? Us?
SECOND WORD OF FORGIVENESS
One of thieves asked to be remembered.
Jesus said, "Truly I say to you, today you shall be with Me in
He extended forgiveness at the last moment!
CONCERN FOR MOTHER
"Woman, behold your son
behold your mother! (John 19:26-27)
Jesus felt responsibility for His mother even to the cross.
PERSONAL ANGUISH (Mark 15:34, Matthew 27:46)
"Eloi, Eloi, Lama Sabachthani?
"My God, My God, why hast thou forsaken me?"
PHYSICAL ANGUISH
"I am thirsty." (John 19:28)
He considered His own needs last.
CRY OF VICTORY
"IT IS FINISHED!" John 19:30
CRY OF SUBMISSION (Luke 23:46)
"Father, into thy hands, I commit my spirit."
He was fully submitted to God's will and purpose.
As we celebrate the cross and the empty tomb, let us take time to remember that Jesus did this for us. He died for me! We also see some examples that we should follow. Have you trusted Jesus, like the thief? Have you learned to forgive? Have you learned to care for others?
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April 5, 2009, Greenville (CA) Southern Baptist Church
