Prayer and Forgiveness

Introduction:

We have embraced love, grace, and forgiveness, but say little about sin, wrath, and punishment. In fact, some may unconsciously believe, “God will forgive me, that’s His job.” With that in mind, Let’s look at Luke 23:32-34. Gospel writers say that Jesus spoke 7 times while hanging on the cross. First of those 7 times is here in our text. We can learn much from this text.

I. Note that Jesus is praying while on the cross.

A.     That is an amazing fact in and of itself.

B.     Statement runs so contrary to human nature.

1.     Did you know the Romans worshipped revenge as one of their gods?

2.     At first thought, people do not hang on crosses and pray for others – and especially for forgiveness of those who were responsible for this atrocious act.

C.     NASU notes the verb tense correctly, (missed in KJV): Jesus was saying…

1.     Verb tense here suggests “continuous, repeated action.”

2.     It was not just once that Jesus prayed this prayer, but many times.

II. What is Jesus praying for?

A.     Was He just praying for everyone who had anything to do w/His crucifixion? Did this amount to a blanket pardon for everyone gathered there that day?

1.     Of course not. These people were still responsible for their sin & needed to repent. See Acts 2:36-40.

B.     Was His prayer for them a way to excuse their ignorance?

1.     Surely not everyone in that crowd that day understood who He was.

2.     Acts 3:17-19 – those who acted ignorantly were still expected to repent & obey the gospel.

C.     So, what, exactly, is Jesus praying for?

1.     Let us take a look at the word “forgive.”

2.     The word that is used here is also used in Matthew 19:14.

                                              a.     Let is the same word translated forgive when Jesus said, “forgive them” on the cross.

3.     Same word is also used in Matthew 27:48-49.

                                              a.     Word used here and is translated “Wait” (ESV). Word is used the same way in both places. “Don’t interfere. Don’t wet his lips with a sponge.”

D.     That is exactly what Jesus is saying on the cross when He prays for them. In essence, He is saying,

1.     God, don’t rush to inflict your wrath upon these people. Hold it back. Don’t interfere.

Conclusion:

A.     Wednesday’s devotional card encouraged us to pray for everyone…including our enemies. It encouraged us to pray for those who are outside of Christ and pray that they come to know Jesus & the sacrifice He made for us and the many blessings that come from obeying Him. If Jesus was willing to pay the price, and beg for the patience of God, then we should be willing to do the same. Do you need to respond?