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As Jesus hung on the cross, suspended between heaven and earth, His body wracked with pain and His soul bearing the weight of the world’s sin, He spoke. And what He said in those final hours was not angry or bitter—it was purposeful, powerful, and deeply personal. These seven sayings are windows into the Savior’s heart, revealing His love, His suffering, His mission, and His victory. They are not the groanings of a dying man—they are the declarations of the redeeming King.

“Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.” (Luke 23:34)
Even as the nails were driven and the mockery rang out, Jesus extended forgiveness. This was not just for the Roman soldiers or the jeering crowd—it was for us. In this first word, we see the mercy of God extending to the very ones who put Him to death.

“Verily I say unto thee, Today shalt thou be with me in paradise.” (Luke 23:43)
To the thief beside Him who believed, Jesus offered immediate hope. With this second saying, the Savior showed that salvation is by grace through faith—not by works or ritual, but by trusting in Him, even with one’s dying breath.

“Woman, behold thy son! … Behold thy mother!” (John 19:26–27)
In His third word, Jesus cared for His earthly mother. Even in His agony, He honored her, ensuring she would be cared for by John. This reveals Christ’s tender humanity and deep love for family, even in suffering.

“My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?” (Matthew 27:46)
These haunting words, the fourth saying, echo Psalm 22. In this moment, Jesus bore the full weight of sin and felt the crushing separation from the Father. The perfect fellowship He had known for eternity was broken—for our sake. He was forsaken so that we might be accepted.

“I thirst.” (John 19:28)
This fifth saying reminds us that Jesus was fully human. He felt every ounce of the physical torment. But it also fulfilled prophecy (Psalm 69:21), showing us that every detail of the cross was foretold and fulfilled in perfect precision.

“It is finished.” (John 19:30)
The sixth cry is a shout of triumph, not defeat. The debt of sin was paid in full. The work of redemption was complete. Nothing more was needed. Salvation had been secured by the blood of the Lamb.

“Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit.” (Luke 23:46)
The seventh and final saying is a peaceful surrender. Having fulfilled all, Jesus entrusted His spirit to the Father. He did not die as a victim—He died as a Victor, laying down His life willingly, just as He said He would.

These seven sayings are sacred. They are more than dying words—they are eternal truths that shape our faith. As we ponder each one, may our hearts be stirred by the love, power, and purpose of our crucified Savior. Every word from that cross was spoken for you. Every breath He took in agony was part of your redemption. Let us listen closely—and respond with worship.