This is the first lesson in a new series entitled, “Last Words of Jesus.”
A person’s final words are often a glimpse deep into the heart. For example, as Jesus hung on the cross, preparing to die, people insulted him. The Scripture says, “When they hurled their insults at Him, He did not retaliate; when He suffered He made no threats (1 Peter 2:23 NIV).”
Instead, Jesus asked his Father to forgive his persecutors.
But what did Jesus mean exactly? Was he asking God to provide universal forgiveness to all mankind? Was he asking God to completely overlook their actions?
In this message, Mike reveals the power of the word that is translated in Luke 23:34 as “forgive.”
Lesson Text:
“Jesus said, ‘”Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.'”
Luke 23:34 (NIV)