Is there any better example of love and compassion in the history of the world than Jesus? During His final days before being crucified, the Biblical record of His thoughts, words, and prayers shows that He was not thinking primarily of Himself, but of others. This lesson examines several of the things He said while on the cross that bear out this idea. While in pain and agony and at the point of death, He asked that others including His accusers be forgiven and that John care for His mother. This show of love is indicative of why we have forgiveness from our sins.
- Mt. 26:36 – Prayed to let this cup pass, yet didn’t dwell on himself
- Prays for disciples in garden
- Jn. 17:8
- 17:20 – Pray for those who will believe thru their word
- Lk. 23:34 – “Forgive them, for they know not what they do”
- Forgiving attitude under these circumstances
- Stephen – Acts 7:59-60
- Ignorance no excuse, but Jesus still asked forgiveness for them – Acts 3:17; 1 Cor. 2:8
- Lk. 23:43 – “Today, you will be with me in Paradise”
- Mt. 27:44 – Both robbers mocked him?
- No bitterness towards thieves
- Jn. 19:25-27 – “Woman behold your Son”
- John tasked with taking care of Mary
- John appears to be cousin of Jesus – Mt. 27:56 v. Jn. 19:23
- In worst moments, Jesus wasn’t focused on himself and His own pain; instead, focused on:
- Disciples
- Mother
- Accusers/enemies
- All believers
- THIS is why we have forgiveness
- This is what we should remember each Lord’s day
- This is why we should be willing to change our lives for Him