Between Death and Resurrection

7th of the Seven Last Words of Jesus on the Cross

Jesus called out with a loud voice, “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.” When he had said this, he breathed his last. Luke 23:46 NIV

Some observations about the passage:

• Jesus consciously entrusted His Spirit unto God the Father.

• He knew exactly what He was doing.

• As such, He could have remained alive on the cross if He chose to.

• He was conscious and aware of what was happening.

• He willingly chose to die on the cross.

• In fact, during His arrest, Jesus stopped His disciples from using violence to stop what was about to happen.

• ⁵³Do you think I cannot call on my Father, and he will at once put at my disposal more than twelve legions of angels? ⁵⁴But how then would the Scriptures be fulfilled that say it must happen in this way?” Matthew 26:53-54 NIV

What was going on between His death and His resurrection?

1. Jesus retained the power He has.

Jesus's power and divinity were not affected by His death. He has the power to lay down His own life. He has the power to take it up again.

¹⁷The reason my Father loves me is that I lay down my life—only to take it up again. ¹⁸No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again. This command I received from my Father.” John 10:17-18 NIV

The death of Jesus did not mean He ceased to exist. It was part of His plan. Through this, He proved what He once claimed.

²⁵Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; ²⁶and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?” John 11:25-26 NIV

2. Jesus restored the way things were.

⁴⁴It was now about noon, and darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon, ⁴⁵for the sun stopped shining. And the curtain of the temple was torn in two. Luke 23:44-45 NIV

The Israelites used to go through a high priest for the forgiveness of sins. He enters to the Most Holy Place to offer sin offering. The Holy Place and the Most Holy Place are divided by a veil. This veil was torn through Jesus Christ from top to bottom. This means we may now go directly to God the Father for repentance. We do not need a high priest to represent us before God anymore. Praise be to Him who reconciled us to God the Father.

We can pray directly to God the Father, in the name of Jesus, by the power of the Holy Spirit. Jesus Christ restored our line of communication through His life.

3. Jesus revived the life they had.

Jesus Christ revived the lives of the holy people.

⁵¹At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth shook, the rocks split ⁵²and the tombs broke open. The bodies of many holy people who had died were raised to life. Matthew 27:51-52 NIV

Eternal life is now possible because Jesus defeated death. This is the same reason why we do not fear death. The Apostle Paul once said,

For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. Philippians 1:21 NIV

Even between His death and resurrection, Jesus chose to complete His mission.

Conclusion:

Jesus knows who to trust. He knew that the only safe place for His Spirit is in the Hands of God the Father while He completes His mission.

Amid His suffering as He hang on the cross, Jesus never thought  of ever stopping. He chose to go through the most horrible way to die for our sake.

Declaration of the Finisher

6th of the Seven Last Words of Jesus on the Cross

When he had received the drink, Jesus said, “It is finished.” With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit. John 19:30 NIV

"It is finished"

In Greek, "Tetelestai," which means, "It is done", "It has been paid in full." It does not only mean His suffering is done. His shout, "Tetelestai" is a shout of victory.

Mission has been accomplished.

All prophecies about the Messiah have been fulfilled in and by Jesus. Therefore, there is nothing left for us to do, but receive His free gift.

There is nothing else we can do to add up to what He has accomplished. Everything has been taken cared of 

I have brought you glory on earth by finishing the work you gave me to do. John 17:4 NIV

No more unfinished business.

Connection has been restored.

The redemption of man from sin was made possible by Jesus's complete work on the cross. He took care of the reconnection of man to the God the Father

He paid the wages of sin. Our ransom has been paid. He suffered on our behalf.

so that, just as sin reigned in death, so also grace might reign through righteousness to bring eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Romans 5:21 NIV

The death he died, he died to sin once for all; but the life he lives, he lives to God. Romans 6:10 NIV

All that is left to do is repent from our sins and believe in Him.

⁸For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— ⁹not by works, so that no one can boast. Ephesians 2:8-9 NIV

Enemy has been defeated.

This means death has been defeated.

⁵⁶The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. ⁵⁷But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Corinthians 15:56-57 NIV

Just when the enemy thought he won by Jesus's death, Christ proved His divinity by still accomplishing His mission between His death and His resurrection.

Conclusion:

Jesus knows how to finish well. He completed His mission, making sure all has been taken cared of.

"It is finished!" is a declaration that Jesus is victorious!

Let us celebrate Jesus because He has done all that is required for our salvation. All that is left for us is to receive it.

Fluid for the Living Water

 5th of the Seven Last Words of Jesus on yhe cross

²⁸Later, knowing that everything had now been finished, and so that Scripture would be fulfilled, Jesus said, “I am thirsty.” ²⁹A jar of wine vinegar was there, so they soaked a sponge in it, put the sponge on a stalk of the hyssop plant, and lifted it to Jesus’ lips. John 19:28-29 NIV

It is interesting that when the nails pierced through the hands and feet of Jesus, He did not say a thing about its pain.

When a crown of thorns was put on His head, He did not say a word. 

When they divided His clothes, He did not yell, "Hey, those are mine!"

Yet, when He felt thirst, He said, "I am thirsty."

None of what Jesus went through were painful enough to make Him say a word.

The one physical need He wanted eased up was thirst.

Here are some truths and lessons we can learn from the 5th of the Last Seven Word of Jesus Christ on the cross.

Jesus felt real thirst.

Jesus got thirsty even before the crucifixion.

⁵So he came to a town in Samaria called Sychar, near the plot of ground Jacob had given to his son Joseph. ⁶Jacob’s well was there, and Jesus, tired as he was from the journey, sat down by the well. It was about noon. ⁷When a Samaritan woman came to draw water, Jesus said to her, “Will you give me a drink?” John 4:5-7 NIV

So, after a long, painful journey, it's understandable He's thirsty. Physically, it's possible.

More importantly, it was it was prophesied.

My mouth is dried up like a potsherd, and my tongue sticks to the roof of my mouth; you lay me in the dust of death. Psalm 22:15 NIV

Jesus revered God's Word.

“Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them." Matthew 5:17 NIV

²⁸Later, knowing that everything had now been finished, and so that Scripture would be fulfilled, Jesus said, “I am thirsty.” John 19:28 NIV

He did not skip one step. He went through it all to complete His mission to save.

so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it. Isaiah 55:11 NIV

Servants in God's vineyard must revere God's Word, just as Jesus did.

Jesus modeled faithful service.

Dying on the cross was part of God's plan of redemption.

Feeling thirsty was part of Him dying on the cross.

Psalm 22 and Isaiah 53 are powerful prophecies about the Messiah.

To be clear, Jesus's suffering on the cross is about Jesus completing His mission.

It has always been and will always be about Jesus saving us. He is the center of the story, not us.

For from him and through him and for him are all things. To him be the glory forever! Amen. Romans 11:36 NIV

For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. Colossians 1:16 NIV

Yet we can still learn from Him about faithful service while hanging on the cross.

Ministry will cause inconvenience.

"For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." Mark 10:45 NIV

Ministry will require sacrifice.

For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will save it. Luke 9:24 NIV

Ministry will demand faithfulness.

“His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’" Matthew 25:21 NIV

God's ministry here on Earth will only be victorius if it is done FOR God.

Conclusion:

Ministry is never convenient. It always involves sacrifice.

As long as we keep our eyes on Jesus and the story of the cross about Him, it is possible to go through serving Him victoriously!

Forsaken for Our Sake

 4th of the Seven Last Words of Jesus on the cross

When I was still teaching in high school, the elementary department have this program where each grade level would perform, usually a dance number for grades 1-3. While students perform, they only face one of two directions - towards the teacher who taught them the steps or towards where their parents are seated.

For students who just want to perform because they want their parents to see them dance, and neither the father nor the mother is there to watch them, it's a disaster. Once they step on the stage, their eyes would look for their mom and dad. If they are not there, they just start crying.

It is sad to not be seen by the one person whose attention you desire. Jesus Christ experienced such while hanging on the cross. When He was up there, something strange happened.

⁴⁵From noon until three in the afternoon darkness came over all the land. ⁴⁶About three in the afternoon Jesus cried out in a loud voice, “Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?” (which means “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”). Matthew 27:46 NIV

On the hours when the sun was supposed to be at its peak, there was darkness. Bible scholars agree that it was the time when God the Father turned His back on His only begotten Son.

It was also a direct quote from Psalm 22:1 when David wrote of a time of great suffering and abandonment.

My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, so far from my cries of anguish? Psalm 22:1 NIV

How can this be?

Jesus asking, "Why have You forsaken me?" to the God who said, "Never will I leave you, never will I forsake you." (Hebrews 13:5).

In addition, David once declared this truth:

"I was young and now I am old, yet I have never seen the righteous forsaken or their children begging bread." Psalm 37:25 NIV

The question remains. Why was Jesus forsaken?

2 Corinthians 5:21 explains a lot.

God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. 2 Corinthians 5:21 NIV

He was forsaken for our sake.

It had to happen so that the righteousness that God required might be imputed unto us through Jesus Christ.

CONCLUSION:

Jesus Christ was forsaken that we might be accepted. What a Savior we have!

Jesus Uncancellable

Cancel culture

• the practice or tendency of engaging in mass canceling as a way of expressing disapproval and exerting social pressure (Merriam-Webster Dictionary)

It is good when it benefits all. It is not good when it harms the truth. You get cancelled when you are beholden to someone or something when you care about what people say.

There were several times people attempted to cancel Jesus. Yet, none of them truly succeeded. Because Jesus is just uncancellable.

All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. John 1:3 NKJV

 

Some ways they tried to cancel Jesus.

(Because there was no social media back then.)

Ethnicity and Background

¹Then He went out from there and came to His own country, and His disciples followed Him.  ²And when the Sabbath had come, He began to teach in the synagogue. And many hearing Him were astonished, saying, “Where did this Man get these things? And what wisdom is this which is given to Him, that such mighty works are performed by His hands!” ³"Is this not the carpenter, the Son of Mary, and brother of James, Joses, Judas, and Simon? And are not His sisters here with us?” So they were offended at Him. Mark 6:1-3 NKJV

 

They acknowledged that Jesus is doing something great and mighty, yet because of His ethnicity, they rejected Him. Yet, Jesus did not stop doing what He does. 

⁴But Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honor except in his own country, among his own relatives, and in his own house.”  ⁵Now He could do no mighty work there, except that He laid His hands on a few sick people and healed them.  ⁶And He marveled because of their unbelief. Then He went about the villages in a circuit, teaching. Mark 6:4-6 NKJV

 

Arguments and Hard Questions

They tried cancelling Jesus by throwing Him arguments and hard questions (at least from their point of view).

Then they sent to Him some of the Pharisees and the Herodians, to catch Him in His words. Mark 12:13 NKJV

 In context, Mark 12:13-34, He answered them all with wisdom.

Now when Jesus saw that he answered wisely, He said to him, “You are not far from the kingdom of God.” But after that no one dared question Him. Mark 12:34 NKJV

What does this mean?

They dared try to silence Jesus, they will surely try to silence you as His follower, but hold onto Him. He is with you.

“But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you.” John 14:26 NKJV

 

Suffering and Death

Jesus defeated the ultimate form of cancelling - death.

Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die.” John 11:25 NIV

“He is not here, but is risen! Remember how He spoke to you when He was still in Galilee, saying, ‘The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again.’” Luke 24:6-7 NKJV

¹²Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. ¹³And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. ¹⁴You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it. John 14:12-14 NIV

 

The first time the apostles preached after the Holy Spirit came, this happened.

Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day. Acts 2:41 NIV

There were healing of the sick, casting out demons, signs wonders and miracles.

The first century Christians had one central message: Jesus resurrected from the dead.

This is where we are now:

His Word and His Disciples

^1"But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. ²People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, ³without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, ⁴treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God— ⁵having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people." 2 Timothy 3:1-5 NIV

Even after the New Testament, they have tried to stop Jesus Christ.

He was never cancelled!

Our goal, as we live for Jesus is to disciple the present and the future generation.

¹⁹Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, ²⁰and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age. Matthew 28:19-20 NIV

 

Stay connected...

• with the Word
• with the Holy Spirit
• with fellow believers!

 Keep moving forward.

Share, witness, testify.

Win souls for Jesus.

Take every opportunity to be equipped.

 

Our mission only stops when Jesus returns.

 

It will always be a privilege serving God.

Yes, we are replaceable, but the God who chose us is uncancellable.

Let us keep moving forward!

Plea of a Son and Friend

Third of the Seven Last Words of Jesus on the cross

²⁶When Jesus saw his mother there, and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to her, “Woman, here is your son,” ²⁷and to the disciple, “Here is your mother.” From that time on, this disciple took her into his home. John 19:26-27 NIV

Why call her "woman"?

Up on the cross, He is already addressing her as human, and Himself, God. Calling her "mother" would be more piercing, painful for her.

Even then, it must have been painful still, as a fulfillment of what was prophesied to Mary:

³⁴Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother: “This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, ³⁵so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too.” Luke 2:34-35 NIV (emphasis added)

In that timeline's culture, widows are taken cared of by the oldest son when her husband dies. When Jesus's ministry started, there were no mention of Joseph. It is assumed that he is already dead. Otherwise he would have been in the picture. Jesus, being Mary's oldest son takes care of Mary.

Why leave her to His youngest disciple?

Because of their connection to Jesus, they were not even present in the scene.

But this has all taken place that the writings of the prophets might be fulfilled.” Then all the disciples deserted him and fled. Matthew 26:56 NIV

What about His brothers?

For even his own brothers did not believe in him. John 7:5 NIV

They were not even believers at that time and would have thought He deserves what was happening to Him.

Perhaps, Jesus saw that Mary and John were two of those who were courageous enough to witness His final hours. Plus, it's always best to leave your loved ones to the courageous ones, to those who will face whatever circumstance to make sure that whatever or whoever is under their care will remain safe and watched over. John, being present at Jesus' crucifixion must have been comforting Mary and all those who were with her. And Jesus saw that.

Most importantly, Jesus knows what will happen in the future. He knew John would be the best choice to leave His mother to.

Lessons we Can Learn From Jesus' 3rd of the Last Seven Last Words.

Lasting care for family.

Jesus entrusted Mary to John and John to Mary. When Jesus is not with them physically anymore, they would understand each other's love for Him and their relationship with God. Every time Mary would talk about Jesus to John, he would understand. Even the mysteries of being close to Jesus is a common thing to both of them. No extra explanation needed. They just know.

Be there for your family every time you get a chance. Do not just give a one-time care. When my grandmother (mother's side) had a stroke, my Aunt who was in London did not waste time. She immediately instructed her siblings to hire a physical therapist to help my grandmother recover, as advised by her doctors. She pulled through. She paid for the entire thing from beginning to end. She could not be there physically, so she did what she can do best for her while being away.

Whenever you can, help those family members in need.

Anyone who does not provide for their relatives, and especially for their own household, has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever. 1 Timothy 5:8 NIV

As a man, Jesus will not be able to take care of Mary physically anymore. Entrusting her to John would make more sense, since he is the youngest disciple. He has longer time to care for her.

As we have read, Jesus did not just show a lasting care for family, He also communicated an encouraging trust for a friend.

Encouraging trust for friends.

For those who knew and walked with Jesus, it would have been a privilege to be entrusted with someone dear to Him by Him. He showed John He trusts he will take care of Mary.

When my wife and I got an insurance and were choosing who to leave our children should the Lord decide we join Him, it was a long-thought decision. It was like a whole season of Survivor series where all our trusted friends and relatives are competing, and we decide who to win. It was not easy but we came up with a decision. The point is that when it comes to people dear to you, you want the best for them. With John, it was a huge favor with a long-lasting commitment to take care of a widow.

True friends are people who take a friend asking for a huge favor as a complement.

In the case of John, it's like after all they have been through with Jesus, this should be a quick decision. His reaction was immediate. He took Mary with him to take care of her.

and to the disciple, “Here is your mother.” From that time on, this disciple took her into his home. John 19:27 NIV

Being in that time, John understands what it meant, and he did not turn Jesus down.

As Jesus was about to complete His mission, he exemplified finishing well for God.

Finishing well for God.

For Jesus to complete His mission, He had to leave His family and friends. He did not let these relationships get in the way. He did not use His family as an excuse not to do what He needed to do. Instead, He gave it as an opportunity for His disciple (John) to put into action what He taught him.

⁴¹If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles. ⁴²Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you. Matthew 5:41-42 NIV

Although he was not forced, and he had a choice to refuse, he willingly took the challenge, just as a student who have learned from his Teacher would.

Jesus is our model.

• In serving God, we choose Him over anything and anyone.
• In serving God, we don't just start right. We finish well.

¹Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, ²fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:1-2 NIV

Note that Jesus did not just leave His earthly mother when He was completing His mission. He made sure someone will take care of her. He showed us that we can be good and faithful servants of Christ while also caring for our family.

Sometimes finishing well means doing things in such a way that the Lord is blessed with our service for Him, so as our family.

Look at how the first century Christians do things to take care of widows:

¹In those days when the number of disciples was increasing, the Hellenistic Jews among them complained against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. ²So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, “It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables. ³Brothers and sisters, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them ⁴and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word.” Acts 6:1-4 NIV

The gospel is preached, but they did not neglect taking care of widows. We can be good servants of Christ while taking care of our responsibilities.

Conclusion:

Genuine disciples of Jesus Christ are students of the Word who learn and apply the art of balance in ministry, relationships, and life.

As the Bible declares,

¹⁷All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, ¹⁷so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 NIV

Hanging Conversation (2nd of the Seven Last Words of Jesus)

Second of the Seven Last Words of Jesus on the cross.

And Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.” Luke 23:43 NKJV

 

Our lives are a constant hanging conversation with God. He offers us the way back to Him, we respond. Until right before our lives are taken from us, that conversation with Jesus remains hanging.

The noise in the background.

³⁵And the people stood looking on. But even the rulers with them sneered, saying, “He saved others; let Him save Himself if He is the Christ, the chosen of God.” ³⁶ The soldiers also mocked Him, coming and offering Him sour wine, ³⁷ and saying, “If You are the King of the Jews, save Yourself.” Luke 23:35-37 NKJV

Background noise are statements that are not worth responding to. Jesus knew that exactly. He heard what they said.  He knew what they were going to say.  He knew what they were thinking at that moment. Yet, He did not give them a response.

Why? He already gave them to God, when He said, "Father forgive them for they know not what they are doing."

As followers of Jesus, we must learn to let go of worthless arguments. People who already made up their minds of who you are, what you believe and the decision not to listen to what you have to say even if it makes sense don’t deserve your attention.

The wasted moment.

Then one of the criminals who were hanged blasphemed Him, saying, “If You are the Christ, save Yourself and us.” Luke 23:39 NKJV

One of the criminals tried to have a word with Jesus, but totally wasted it. He went to Jesus with the same mindset as the noise in the background. He was like, "Yeah, these people down the ground are right. If this is God, He could save Himself and maybe us, too."

The problem was He was talking about TRYING TO USE GOD for His own agenda.

He was guilty of what he was accused of, while Jesus was not. Yet, he had the strength to ask God to set him free from the consequences of his sin, without acknowledging Jesus as Lord and Savior. 

He said, "IF You are God..."

He did not call Him God but He said, “IF You are God...”

Response from Jesus? Not a Word.

 

The humility that's worth Jesus' precious Word.

⁴⁰ But the other, answering, rebuked him, saying, “Do you not even fear God, seeing you are under the same condemnation?” ⁴¹ “And we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward of our deeds; but this Man has done nothing wrong.” ⁴² Then he said to Jesus, “Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.” Luke 23:40-42 NKJV

Here we have another criminal who is a part of the "hanging conversation" going on with Jesus. This one is different. He acknowledged that Jesus is God, that he is a sinner, and that he deserves to be punished for what he has done.

He did not just believe that Jesus is God. He came to Him as a man praying to his God.

He acknowledged that Jesus is his hope for life after death.

So he got Jesus's attention.

He got a verbal response from Jesus.

 

The hope for the unwanted.

And Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.” Luke 23:43 NKJV 

Humility attracts God's attention.

There is an assurance that those who receive Jesus as Lord and Savior has a place in eternity with Him.

To the crowd and to the first thief, Jesus did not give a response. Why? He has a habit of responding to and honoring the faith of those who has FAITH IN HIM!

Look at this passage.

³⁹When He came in, He said to them, “Why make this commotion and weep? The child is not dead, but sleeping.” ⁴⁰And they ridiculed Him. But when He had put them all outside, He took the father and the mother of the child, and those who were with Him, and entered where the child was lying. ⁴¹Then He took the child by the hand, and said to her, “Talitha, cumi,” which is translated, “Little girl, I say to you, arise.” ⁴²Immediately the girl arose and walked, for she was twelve years of age. And they were overcome with great amazement.” Mark 5: 39-42 NKJV

 

So what is the conclusion of the hanging conversation? Jesus saves. There is no better time to receive Him as Lord and Savior than now!

For He says: “In an acceptable time I have heard you, and in the day of salvation I have helped you.” Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” II Corinthians 6:2 NKJV

To some, like the first thief on the cross who spoke to Jesus, the conclusion of our hanging conversation with Jesus is selfish, self-directed. "Do this for me" kind of statement.

For others, like the second thief on the cross who spoke with Jesus, it is God-directed. "I know You are the Messiah, take me with You."

Jesus sealed the deal with, "Today, you will be with me in Paradise." It was love-oriented.

“Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me.” Revelation 3:20 NKJV

 

The truth is, God already knows our hanging answer no matter how long we delay saying and living it. From human point of view, we are delaying it, but for Him, it was never hanging. He always knew who will and who will not receive Him as Lord and Savior.

To the one reading this, I pray that you decide today to never leave your conversation with Jesus hanging. He stands at the doors of our hearts today, asking, "Would you receive this free gift of salvation?"

 

 

Prayer of the Mediator

First of the Seven Last Words of Jesus on the cross.

I remember in elementary and high school back in the Philippines. On subject, English, we were tasked to write formal and non-formal theme. It's usually more than just one paragraph. The hardest thing to write is always the first sentence. After that, everything is almost automatic.

To Jesus, after long hours of silence, the first words were easy. “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.”

Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” And they divided up his clothes by casting lots. Luke 23:34 NIV

Things we can learn from Jesus's first word

 

Live by His Words.

Considering what He taught His disciples long before this moment, Jesus is living by His own words.

On forgiveness.

"And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.” Mark 11:25 NIV

 

On anger.

But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to a brother or sister, "Raca," is answerable to the court. And anyone who says, "You fool!" will be in danger of the fire of hell. Matthew 5:22 NIV

 

On reconciliation.

²³“Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, ²⁴leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift. Matthew 5:23-24 NIV

 

On saving.

“For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” Luke 19:10 NIV

 

Jesus did not let hatred and anger rule His heart, nor did He let it cloud His mission (to save mankind). He stayed on His mission even while suffering. As truthful as He is to His own teachings, His first words during His suffering on the cross were, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing."

He was determined to save the unsaved.

 

Intercede for the unsaved.

Regardless of one's background, status in life, or view of who Jesus is, everyone deserves a chance to salvation. Remember, Jesus came so that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life."

Consider the people whom at that time, He was mediating for.

 

The witnesses.

People who witnessed (and perhaps received) miracles done by Jesus. Because of what's at stake, none of them were able to do anything for Jesus. At that time, whoever reacts against what was happening will also be crucified. It's a suicide to go against it.

 

The soldiers.

People who are just doing their job. They have no idea what was happening in respect to salvation.

 

The conspirators.

These are ones who planned to kill Jesus. They have been waiting for this day. When at least they thought, they will finally silence Jesus. (Of course from our point of view, we know what happened)

 

Jesus prayed on behalf of them all, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.”

To Him, it was clear, "they do not know what they are doing."

As ones who once did not know what they were doing, we must trust the Mediator, Jesus.

 

Trust in the Mediator.

We must not just trust. We must FULLY trust Jesus Christ.

He is the only qualified mediator between God and man.

⁵For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus, ⁶who gave himself as a ransom for all people. This has now been witnessed to at the proper time. 1 Timothy 2:5-6 NIV

Back in heaven, He is interceding for us.

Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. Romans 8:34 NIV

This is how consistent He is. Whether in the form of a man or of a God, He intercedes on our behalf.

This is our God, our Savior! His name is JESUS!

Jesus has always been and will always be our only way to heaven. He is our redemption.

Our role as His followers is to share to others the Good News that He is THE WAY.

Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." John 14:6 NIV

He held on to this role even when it was not easy.

He exemplified what He taught us in John 16:33.

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 NIV

 

Protection From Division

Christ's sufficiency covers even our reason for remaining united. We can express different opinions without tearing each other apart.

 

What binds us (Jesus Christ) should always be stronger than what might divide us (anything other than Jesus Christ).

The Word of the Lord says,

¹⁷I urge you, brothers and sisters, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them. ¹⁸For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of naive people. ¹⁹Everyone has heard about your obedience, so I rejoice because of you; but I want you to be wise about what is good, and innocent about what is evil. ²⁰The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus be with you. Romans 16:17-20 NIV

I tell you this so that no one may deceive you by fine-sounding arguments. Colossians 2:4 NIV

If you think about it, there has always been attempts to twist the truthfulness of God's Word.

What can possibly protect us from division?

Fear of the Lord.

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. Proverbs 9:10 NIV

People who love the Lord, but do not fear Him fall into temptation. Those who have experienced backsliding, as they gave in to temptation, they still love the Lord. What they lost was fear of the Lord.

Let us look at this event that happened in the first century.

¹Now a man named Ananias, together with his wife Sapphira, also sold a piece of property. ²With his wife’s full knowledge he kept back part of the money for himself, but brought the rest and put it at the apostles’ feet. Acts 5:1-2 NIV

What Ananias and Sapphira lost was not their love for God, but the fear of the Lord. They thought that giving only a portion of what they promised was enough. They must have thought the Lord would not mind. Yet, it was about love of money, which kills one's fear of the Lord.

Consider this. Married men or married women who commit adultery did not necessarily lose their love for their spouse, but the fear of it's effect on their relationship. They may even express their love for their legal spouse, but still commit things that endangers their relationship. That is how love and fear differ in function to a relationship.

Those who rebel against God and His church did not lose their love for God, they even put up their own church as a proof of that love. What they lost is the fear of the Lord whose Word teaches us to keep away from those who cause division.

For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of naive people. Romans 16:18 NIV

Sure, we love the Lord because He first loved us, but that does not mean we should not fear the Lord. Our fear of Him keeps us grounded to Him as the One who deserves reverence and worship, helping us stay away from division, and loving unity with our fellow believers.

As the verse says, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom." Therefore, we need wisdom from the spirit.

Wisdom from the Spirit.

But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. John 14:26 NIV

The Holy Spirit gives wisdom.

The Apostle Paul instructs the believers in Rome to be wise of what is good.

¹⁹Everyone has heard about your obedience, so I rejoice because of you; but I want you to be wise about what is good, and innocent about what is evil. Romans 16:19 NIV

Obedience is good. No doubt about it. God desires it from His people. But be obedient and wise about what is good, and innocent about what is evil. This means do good things, not evil.

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Philippians 4:8 NIV

Identify them but know what to do and what not to.

“I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves." Matthew 10:16 NIV

One of the proofs that our wisdom is from the Holy Spirit is that we desire to gain knowledge of the Word.

3. Knowledge of the Word.

¹⁶All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, ¹⁷so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 NIV

This we know about the main source of division:

The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus be with you. Romans 16:17-20 NIV

It is the Bible that tells us that. Spend time studying God's Word.

Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God’s wrath comes on those who are disobedient. Ephesians 5:6 NIV

Here is the thing though:

Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. James 1:22 NIV

You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that—and shudder. James 2:19 NIV

A person who has a genuine knowledge of the Word knows how to live by the Word. It is our guide as we live.

God's Word teaches us to be united, not divided.

As believers of Jesus, we choose to remain united through His Word, abhorring division.

²²I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one— ²³I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me. John 17:22-23 NIV

³⁴“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. ³⁵By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” John 13:34-35 NIV