March 29, 2026
Study 3: “Why Our Lord was Crucified” (Zion’s WatchTower – May 24, 1908, R4171)
As we review the events of our Lord’s crucifixion we would like to focus on the seven words from the cross.
1) The first three sayings focus on other people. What is the significance of these words?
- “Father forgive them…”
- “Today you will be with me in paradise”
- “Son, behold your mother…”
2) The last four sayings focus on Jesus himself. What is the significance of these words?
- “My God, why have you forsaken me?”
- “I thirst”
- “It is finished”
- “Father into thy hands I commit my spirit”
Discussion Summary:
Question 1: All of these sayings were for the encouragement of his followers throughout the years to come. Luke 23:34 says that Jesus asked his Father to forgive those who crucified him. Scholars tell us that these words are not found in some of the earliest manuscripts, but they are certainly a teaching of Jesus (Matthew 6:14,15) and are echoed by Stephen the first Christian martyr (Acts 7:60).
Jesus had other brothers and sisters but by asking John to take care for his mother, Jesus is emphasizing the family relationship his followers were to have with each other. (Matthew 12:46-50).
Question 2: When we read the last four sayings of Jesus we are to remember that his suffering was foretold. See Psalm 22 and Psalm 69. And so we are to see that his death was arranged by the Heavenly Father before he became a man. “For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son…” John 3:16. Jesus’ death is the centerpiece of God’s plan to bring mankind back into relationship with himself.
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