Whenever I think about the crucifixion and the last words or statements of Jesus, I must look at all the gospel writers in the Bible, for each one writes from a different perspective. I know that
each time I have to look back to the events of his life and ministry during the 33 brief years he lived on this earth—what he did, what he said, and what he taught his disciples, including you and me.
In writing this latest book of mine, I wanted to put each of these seven statements or words of Christ into context—not just the context of the week leading up to the crucifixion, but also the context of the entire life of Jesus—his teaching, healing, and ministry with his disciples and followers. By so doing, we will be able to see just why these last words are of paramount importance to all of us, both then and now.
After Jesus died on the cross, he was laid in a borrowed tomb donated by Joseph of Arimathea, and just like he promised his disciples, he rose from the dead on the third day (Easter Morning). Death was not the end of Jesus and it will not be the end of us, either. Because he lives, we will live also. In John 11:25 we read Jesus' words, "I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he dies, yet shall he live."
Jesus will come again, at a time known only to the Father in heaven (1 Thessalonians 4:16). And when he comes, every person on earth will see him: "Look, he is coming in the clouds and every eye will see him" (Revelation 1:7).
Jesus came to earth to save us from our sins, and to offer abundant life today and eternal life forevermore to all who believe in him. Let us prepare our hearts and minds so that we will be ready for him when he comes. In Jesus' precious name I pray, amen.
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