In the Beginning and the End: Jesus' First and Last Words
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As a devout Christian, I've always found great inspiration in the teachings of Jesus Christ. His words have a profound impact on the lives of believers worldwide. Today, I want to explore the extraordinary significance of Jesus' first and last words in the New Testament—both before and after His resurrection. These words provide a compelling narrative that speaks to the core of our faith and offers profound insights into His divine mission. Let's delve into the scriptures to uncover the depth of their meaning.
The First Words (Matthew 3:15)
Let's begin with the first words of Jesus in the New Testament, found in the book of Matthew, chapter 3, verse 15. As He came to John the Baptist for baptism, Jesus uttered these powerful words: "Let it be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness."
These words mark the commencement of Jesus' earthly ministry. They symbolize His willingness to take on the sins of humanity and fulfill God's plan for salvation. By being baptized, Jesus not only set an example for us but also demonstrated His commitment to righteousness and God's divine purpose.
The Last Words Before the Cross (John 19:28-30)
Next, we explore the last words spoken by Jesus on the cross, moments before His crucifixion, in the Gospel of John, chapter 19, verses 28-30:
"Later, knowing that everything had now been finished, and so that Scripture would be fulfilled, Jesus said, 'I am thirsty.' A jar of wine vinegar was there, so they soaked a sponge in it, put the sponge on a stalk of the hyssop plant, and lifted it to Jesus' lips. When He had received the drink, Jesus said, 'It is finished.' With that, He bowed His head and gave up His spirit."
These final words, "It is finished," hold profound significance. They signify the completion of Jesus' earthly mission to atone for the sins of humanity. In those three words, He declared that the work of redemption had been accomplished. By offering Himself as the ultimate sacrifice, Jesus provided the way for all people to be reconciled with God.
The First Words After Resurrection (Matthew 28:5-7)
Following His crucifixion and burial, Jesus' first words after His resurrection can be found in the Gospel of Matthew, chapter 28, verses 5-7:
"The angel said to the women, 'Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; He has risen, just as He said. Come and see the place where He lay. Then go quickly and tell His disciples: "He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see Him." Now I have told you.'"
These words, conveyed through the angel, carry a powerful message of hope and confirmation of His divine promise. By saying, "He has risen, just as He said," Jesus reaffirmed the truth of His teachings and prophecies about His resurrection.
The Last Words After Resurrection and Ascension (Acts 1:8-11)
Next, we turn to the last words Jesus spoke after His resurrection and before ascending back to heaven. These can be found in the book of Acts, chapter 1, verses 8-11:
"But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." After He said this, He was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid Him from their sight.
These parting words serve as Jesus' commission to His disciples and to all believers. They emphasize the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit and the responsibility to spread the gospel to the ends of the earth. As He ascended into heaven, these words reinforced His divine authority and the continuity of His mission through His followers.
The Last Words in Revelation (Revelation 22:20)
Before we conclude, let's explore the last words of Jesus as recorded in the book of Revelation, chapter 22, verse 20: "He who testifies to these things says, 'Surely I am coming soon.' Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!"
These closing words encapsulate Jesus' promise to return and usher in the final redemption of humanity. They echo His first words, highlighting the fulfillment of God's plan for salvation. The urgency in His voice, saying, "I am coming soon," reminds us to be vigilant and prepared for His return. It's a call to faith and perseverance, even in the face of challenges and trials.
In these words, Jesus reaffirms His role as the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. They emphasize the culmination of God's redemptive plan and the ultimate victory over sin and death.
Recommended Books to Further Study the Subject
In conclusion, Jesus' first and last words in the New Testament, from His baptism to His crucifixion, resurrection, ascension, and His promise of return in Revelation, form a profound narrative that guides and inspires Christians on their faith journey. May we find inspiration, hope, and a renewed sense of purpose as we reflect on the significance of these words in our lives—the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End.
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