Sermon Central
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The Fourth Word From The Cross: "Eloi, Eloi, Lema Sabachthani?" Series
Contributed by Ravin Caldera on Nov 28, 2017 (message contributor)
Summary: This is a reflection on the forth word from the cross, which is a very difficult passage for exposition. These words give a deep expression of faith ("my God, my God"), universal cry for justice ("why") and, words of deep mystery ("have forsaken me").
However, I do not see any benefit in putting these words into the mouth of Jesus, since these words only create paradoxes rather, than a theological settlement.
Donald A. Hagner says I trust in his unchanging grace. Perhaps it is best simply to let the words stand as they are—stark in their impenetrability to us mortals" (Hagner, Matthew 14–28, vol. 33B, 846).
"Eloi, Eloi, lema sabachthani?" which means, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" (Mark 15:34).
Prayer: Gracious God, you taught us that you will be present always. Now give us the grace to lift up our eyes in faith, when we are in afflictions, pain, and sorrow. Give us the heart to follow you by seen your suffering on the cross and to proclaim you as our prime example of faith, to the glory of God the Father. Amen.
