The First Three Words Jesus' first three statements from the cross relate primarily to others, and Jesus spoke them between 9:00 a.m. and noon (Mark 15:25 ). First He asked forgiveness for those who were crucifying Him (Luke 23:34 ). Then He promised to be with the penitent thief in paradise (Luke 23:43 ). Jesus' provision for the care of His mother by John comprised His third remarks from the cross (John 19:26-27 ).

The Last Four Words Jesus' last four statements refer to Himself and were spoken between noon and 3:00 p.m. (Matthew 27:45; Mark 15:33; Luke 23:44 ). He uttered the cry of desolation, quoting Psalm 22:1 in the Aramaic language ( Matthew 27:46; Mark 15:34 ), expressed His thirst, (John 19:28 ) and issued the cry of victory, “It is finished” (John 19:30 ). In His final words, Jesus quoted Psalm 31:5 as He committed His spirit to God ( Luke 23:46 ). See Crucifixion.

Steve W. Lemke