Q. Why did Jesus, in the book of Luke, say "Father, forgive them . . ." while he was 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. "And when they had come to the place called Calvary, there they crucified Him, and the criminals, one on the right hand and the other on the left. Then Jesus said, 'Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.' "And they divided His garments and cast lots. And 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.'" (Luke 23:33-35, NKJV throughout)
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. Notice Jesus' statement in Matthew 23: "O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the one who kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to her! How often I wanted to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing! See! Your house is left to you desolate; for I say to you, you shall see Me no more till you say, 'Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!' " (Matthew 23:37-39) |
