Explore the profound themes of forgiveness as Jesus prays for His mockers during crucifixion. Delve into His priestly intercession and the implications of ignorance for accountability. Reflect on the ridicule He faced and His unwavering obedience to God's plan. Hear the poignant interaction with a condemned thief, highlighting faith and recognition of innocence. Uncover the promise of immediate paradise, offering hope and comfort to believers about eternal life.
Jesus's intercession on the cross illustrates profound mercy, demonstrating his role as Savior and the importance of offering forgiveness to others.
The dialogue between Jesus and the criminal emphasizes the immediacy of divine grace and assures believers of instant salvation upon death.
Deep dives
The Heart of Intercession
Jesus's plea for forgiveness as he hung on the cross illustrates the profound mercy and intercession he extended even towards those who were crucifying him. His words, 'Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do,' reflect his compassion for their ignorance as they mocked him. This act of intercession is a key aspect of his role as the Savior, highlighting his intention to redeem humanity despite their actions. The concept of ignorance, as discussed in the context of Old Testament scripture and theological distinctions, underscores the nature of sin and the need for grace.
Mockery Amidst Suffering
While Jesus was being crucified, he faced mockery from various groups, including the rulers, soldiers, and thieves, all challenging his identity as the Messiah. The taunts implied that if he could save others, he should save himself, demonstrating their misunderstanding of his mission and power. The rulers publicly scoffed, acknowledging his miracles while questioning his ability to rescue himself, which only deepened their contempt. This mockery showcases the tragic irony of the moment, as those who rejected him failed to recognize that his refusal to save himself was part of a divine plan.
Promise of Paradise
In a powerful moment, one of the criminals crucified alongside Jesus recognized his innocence and asked to be remembered in his kingdom. Jesus responded with a promise of immediate salvation, proclaiming that they would be together in paradise that very day. This exchange not only emphasizes the hope and assurance of salvation but also highlights the immediate nature of divine grace. It counteracts misconceptions about the afterlife, affirming that believers will enter the presence of God upon death, showcasing the beauty of faith and redemption even in the final moments of life.
As onlookers mocked and ridiculed Him, Jesus prayed from the cross: “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” From his expositional series in the gospel of Luke, today R.C. Sproul calls us to behold Christ’s priestly ministry in His sacrifice and intercession.
Get R.C. Sproul’s commentary on the gospel of Luke for your donation of any amount: https://gift.renewingyourmind.org/3983/donate Live outside the U.S. and Canada? Request the ebook edition of R.C. Sproul’s commentary on Luke for your donation of any amount: https://www.renewingyourmind.org/global Meet Today’s Teacher: R.C. Sproul (1939–2017) was known for his ability to winsomely and clearly communicate deep, practical truths from God’s Word. He was founder of Ligonier Ministries, first minister of preaching and teaching at Saint Andrew’s Chapel, first president of Reformation Bible College, and executive editor of Tabletalk magazine. Meet the Host: Nathan W. Bingham is vice president of ministry engagement for Ligonier Ministries, executive producer and host of Renewing Your Mind, host of the Ask Ligonier podcast, and a graduate of Presbyterian Theological College in Melbourne, Australia. Nathan joined Ligonier in 2012 and lives in Central Florida with his wife and four children.
Renewing Your Mind is a donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode