Q. Why did Jesus say "Father forgive them for
they know not what they do" while on the cross?
(Submitted by: Lettie)
A. The reason Jesus (who was God) came in the flesh
to Earth is so that all of humanity might have their sins forgiven them and have the opportunity to be at One with Him and the Father. Most people do
not understand why we need forgiveness, but we ALL do, whether Christian or not. The Jewish leadership who had Jesus crucified--even though they read
all the prophecies periodically--were blinded--or perhaps blinded themselves as to who He really was. Therefore, in their own minds, they were
executing a blasphemer--which was the legal thing to do under their law. What was NOT legal, was the fact that they had the trial at night with false
witnesses--a kangaroo court if you will--because they feared the people.
Now, let's look at a few Scriptures and get the context.
" Then Jesus said, "Father forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing." And as
they divided His garments, they cast lots. Now the people stood by observing and the rulers among them were also deriding Him, saying, 'He saved
others; let Him save Himself, if this is the Christ, the chosen of God.' "(Luke 23:34-35)
Christ, suffering and dying on the cross, stated that they didn't KNOW what they were doing. This implies
very strongly that some day they WILL know the full extent of what they did. It will be at that time that they will repent. Note Matthew 23:37-39 :
" O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, [thou] that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto
thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under [her] wings, and ye would not! Behold, your
house is left unto you desolate. For I say unto you, Ye shall not see me henceforth, till ye shall say, Blessed [is] he that cometh in the
name of the Lord. " |
