The Seven Sayings of Jesus From the Crossનમૂનો

"Father, Forgive Them…" (Luke 23:34)

The first words Jesus speaks from the cross are not of judgment, but of mercy: "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing." The Greek verb for forgive here is ἀφίημι (aphíēmi), is often translated as “to release”, “to let go”, “to send away.” It’s the same word used when Jesus forgives sins throughout His ministry.

This is a staggering act of intercession. Roman crucifixion was designed to be an execution of terror and shame. The accused were stripped naked, nailed through the wrists and feet, and left to suffer for hours — sometimes days — until death. And yet, Jesus, battered and bleeding, prays for the very people carrying out His execution.

But who exactly is He forgiving? The Roman soldiers who mocked and beat Him? The Jewish leaders who handed Him over? The crowd that cried, "Crucify Him!" (Mark 15:13)? The reality is: Jesus is praying for all sinners — for you and me. His words reveal the heart of God, who offers forgiveness even before we seek it.

Personal Application

• How does Jesus' prayer challenge your understanding of grace?
• Is there someone in your life you need to release from bitterness or resentment?
• How does knowing you are already forgiven change the way you live?

Prayer

Lord Jesus, Your forgiveness is beyond my comprehension. Even in suffering, You chose love. Teach me to forgive as You forgive — to release, to let go, to love even my enemies. Thank You for forgiving me before I even knew I needed it. Amen.

Click here to watch Ben Witherington III share about Luke 23:24.