Unpacking the Mystery of Jesus’ Cry on the Cross
As we reflect on the crucifixion of Jesus, one phrase stands out: “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” These words, spoken by Jesus in his darkest moment, have been the subject of much speculation and interpretation. But what can we truly understand from this cry?
Beyond the Veil of Speculation
It’s tempting to read into Jesus’ words a sense of abandonment or separation from God. Some might even suggest that the Trinity was broken, if only for a moment. However, such interpretations stray from biblical orthodoxy and undermine the unity of the Godhead.
The Unity of the Godhead
Scripture teaches us that there is one God, indivisible and unchanging (Deut. 6:4, James 1:17, Mal. 3:6). The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are not three separate entities, but rather three persons of the same divine essence. This unity is fundamental to our understanding of God’s nature.
The Impassibility of God
Furthermore, God is impassible, meaning he cannot suffer or be affected by external forces. As Calvin notes, “God does not have blood, does not suffer, cannot be touched with hands.” This doctrine may seem abstract, but it’s essential to our understanding of God’s sovereignty and self-sufficiency.
A Human Experience
So, what can we make of Jesus’ cry? To answer this, we must turn to the incarnation. As the Son of God took on human flesh, he experienced the full range of human emotions, including suffering and despair. His cry on the cross was a genuinely human expression, not a sign of divine abandonment.
A Sign of Judgment
The darkness that fell during the crucifixion (Matt. 27:45-46) was a sign of God’s judgment, a reminder that Jesus bore the weight of our sin on the cross. This was a moment of profound sorrow, but not a moment of separation from God.
A Flickering Candle in the Darkness
As we peer into the mystery of Jesus’ cry, we see a glimmer of hope. Despite the darkness, Jesus remained faithful, trusting in his Father’s love and redemption. His cry was not a sign of lost faith, but rather a human expression of anguish and trust.
Tiptoeing into the Mystery
Some theologians, like Thomas Goodwin, suggest that Jesus experienced a sense of being cut off from God’s comfort, but not his love. This dual relationship – as Son and mediator – allowed Jesus to bear the wrath of God on our behalf.
A Reassuring Truth
While we may never fully comprehend the mystery of Jesus’ cry, we can find reassurance in his words. He has gone into the darkness on our behalf, bearing the weight of our sin and emerging victorious. In this, we find hope and redemption.
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