December 3. Divine Forgiveness
J.R. Miller teaches that Christ's prayer for forgiveness on the cross exemplifies the profound Christian call to forgive even those who harm us, highlighting the ongoing intercession of Jesus for sinners.
In this devotional sermon, J.R. Miller reflects on Jesus’ prayer for forgiveness from the cross, emphasizing the depth of divine mercy and the ongoing intercession of Christ for sinners. Miller invites believers to embrace a forgiving spirit modeled by Jesus, even in the face of suffering and injustice. The sermon encourages Christians to extend grace and forgiveness to those who wrong them, following the example set by the Savior.
Text
"Father, forgive them — for they know not what they do." Luke 23:34
This was the first saying spoken by our Lord on His cross. It was uttered just when the soldiers were in the act of crucifying Him — driving the cruel nails through His hands and feet. It was a moment of excruciating, inconceivable anguish. Yet He uttered no cry of pain, no word of execration upon those who were causing Him such suffering — but calmly prayed for His brutal, pitiless murderers, "Father, forgive them — for they know not what they do."
The moment the sacred blood began to flow — the intercession for sinners began. The pleading was first for the ignorant heathen soldiers who were acting as executioners; but it was not for these alone. It certainly widened out, and took in all who had been concerned in the condemnation and crucifixion of Jesus. It was for the Jewish rulers and people who had rejected their Messiah. May we not believe that many of those who on the day of Pentecost and afterward were brought to repentance — were forgiven and saved because on His cross Jesus made intercession for them?
Then the prayer went out beyond the people who had a direct part in the crucifixion. From His cross, Jesus saw the lost world down to the end, and prayed for all His people. We know, too, that that word of prayer was but the beginning of an intercession that is going on yet inside Heaven, where Jesus pleads the merits of His own sacrifice, for the salvation of His people.
This word of Jesus teaches us a great lesson on Christian forgiveness. He prayed for His murderers! Just so, we should pray for those who injure us. There are some fragrant trees which bathe the axe that gashes them in perfume. So should it be with Christ\
Sermon Outline
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I
- Jesus' first words on the cross were a prayer for forgiveness
- He prayed for the soldiers crucifying Him despite their cruelty
- This moment marks the beginning of His intercession for sinners
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II
- The prayer extended beyond immediate executioners to Jewish rulers and people
- Many who later repented were forgiven through this intercession
- Jesus' vision on the cross included the salvation of all His people
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III
- Jesus continues to intercede in Heaven for the merits of His sacrifice
- His example teaches Christians to forgive those who injure them
- Forgiveness should be as fragrant as a tree bathing the axe that wounds it
Key Quotes
“Father, forgive them — for they know not what they do.” — J.R. Miller
“The moment the sacred blood began to flow — the intercession for sinners began.” — J.R. Miller
“There are some fragrant trees which bathe the axe that gashes them in perfume. So should it be with Christ.” — J.R. Miller
Application Points
- Pray for those who have wronged you, following Jesus’ example on the cross.
- Remember that Jesus intercedes continually for sinners, offering hope for all.
- Cultivate a forgiving heart that reflects the fragrance of Christ’s love even amid pain.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Jesus say on the cross regarding forgiveness?
Jesus prayed, 'Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do,' asking forgiveness for those crucifying Him.
Who was Jesus praying for in His statement on the cross?
He prayed for the soldiers, Jewish rulers, people involved in His condemnation, and ultimately all sinners.
Does Jesus still intercede for believers today?
Yes, Jesus continues His intercession in Heaven, pleading the merits of His sacrifice for the salvation of His people.
What lesson does this sermon teach about forgiveness?
Christ’s example teaches believers to forgive those who harm them, reflecting divine forgiveness in their own lives.
How can Christians apply Jesus’ example of forgiveness?
By praying for those who injure them and responding with grace rather than bitterness.