Lecture Notes on the Seven Last Sayings of Jesus

Introduction

• Dr. Matthew Whatley discusses the first word from the Lord, focusing on the utterance "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do."
• The lecture is part of the Seven Last Sayings of 2023, featuring various speakers.

First Saying: "Father, Forgive Them"

• Speaker: Dr. Matthew Whatley
• Gospel Reference: Luke 23
• Main Points:
  • This saying is unique to the Gospel of Luke.
  • Redaction criticism debates the authenticity of this saying due to its absence in some manuscripts.
  • Early Christians may have removed it due to tensions with Jews.
  • Forgiveness is difficult but central to Christian character.
  • Jesus asks God to forgive, showing reliance on divine strength.
  • Forgiveness is a process that takes time and prayer.

Second Saying: "Today You Will Be With Me in Paradise"

• Speaker: Unnamed
• Gospel Reference: Luke 23
• Main Points:
  • Discusses two criminals crucified with Jesus, known as Gestas and Dismas.
  • Dismas, the penitent thief, asks Jesus to remember him.
  • Emphasizes seizing moments of opportunity for salvation.
  • Highlights the transformation from doubt to faith.

Third Saying: "Woman, Behold Your Son"

• Speaker: Unnamed
• Gospel Reference: John 19
• Main Points:
  • Jesus entrusts Mary to the care of John.
  • This saying shifts traditional views of family beyond biological ties to spiritual bonds.
  • Public acknowledgment of relationships is important.
  • Emphasizes taking care of family and future generations.

Fourth Saying: "My God, My God, Why Have You Forsaken Me?"

• Speaker: Bishop Dr. Dante Hickman
• Gospel Reference: Matthew 27
• Main Points:
  • Expresses Jesus' feeling of abandonment.
  • Highlights human emotions and the importance of being honest with God.
  • God's presence is constant, even when not felt.
  • Jesus references Psalm 22, signifying faith in eventual deliverance.

Fifth Saying: "I Thirst"

• Speaker: Reverend Justin Rhodes
• Gospel Reference: John 19
• Main Points:
  • Reflects Jesus' physical suffering and humanity.
  • Highlights the neglect of personal needs while serving others.
  • Only recorded by John, emphasizing the uniqueness of this perspective.
  • Jesus' fulfillment of scripture.

Sixth Saying: "It Is Finished"

• Speaker: Dr. Marcus Jerkins
• Gospel Reference: John 19
• Main Points:
  • Marks the completion of Jesus’ mission on Earth.
  • Jesus’ works demonstrate the reign of God.
  • Emphasizes faithfulness and completion of divine assignment.
  • Victory can look like defeat, but Jesus' work is truly triumphant.

Seventh Saying: "Father, Into Thy Hands I Commend My Spirit"

• Speaker: Dr. Wallace Baxter
• Gospel Reference: Luke 23
• Main Points:
  • Represents a transition from earthly ministry to divine rest.
  • Highlights trust and surrender to God's will.
  • Jesus completes his teaching and ministry with this final act of trust.

Conclusion

• The Seven Last Sayings reflect various aspects of Jesus’ teachings and character.
• Emphasize themes of forgiveness, salvation, divine trust, and completion of mission.
• The service included a collection and recognition of clergy and visitors.

Final Thoughts

• The Seven Last Sayings offer profound insights into Jesus’ final moments and their theological implications.
• Encourage reflection on how these sayings apply to personal faith and practice.