JESUS’ PRAYER ON THE CROSS

The words of the Bible are truly wondrous. At first glance, Christians may immediately grasp the meaning and content of the verses; yet, upon careful study, one discovers the profound depth of the Lord’s words. This becomes evident when we reflect on the prayer Jesus offered while on the cross.

LUKE 23:34 – Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.” And they divided His garments by casting lots.

All Christians are familiar with this prayer. However, does this prayer imply that everyone who crucified the Lord—whether directly, indirectly, or by supporting the act—was fully forgiven?

We need to understand the principles and the Truth by which God forgives sinners. Did God forgive those who crucified Jesus simply because of His prayer, or did He forgive according to His own principles and Truths? What are those principles and Truths? When Jesus uttered those words, was He praying according to His own will or according to God’s will? Where in the Bible does it indicate that Jesus’ prayer was in accordance with God’s will?

Furthermore, whom does the word “them” in the Lord’s prayer encompass? Did Jesus forgive all those individuals? Or is there a distinction between those who would be forgiven and those who would not? Who knew what they were doing, and who did not? How can one distinguish between the two?

Physically, Jesus was crucified only once; but spiritually, was He crucified multiple times? If so, who are the ones who have continued to crucify the Lord? Can they be forgiven? Can they receive salvation in the future?

These are just a few questions prompted by this Bible verse, intended to help us study Scripture using the method known as Biblical Exposition.