The Unyielding Presence of God
Understanding Jesus' Words on the Cross
This article aims to explore the nuanced understanding of God's unyielding presence and the symbolism brought forward through the careful choice of Jesus' words during His crucifixion.
The Unyielding Presence of God
Understanding Jesus' Words on the Cross
In the realm of faith, it is a foundational belief that God never forsakes believers; His presence is eternal, guiding and providing solace in times of distress. From the Scriptures is from where the deep-seated assurance of God's unfaltering presence comes, revealed vividly through a detailed examination of Jesus' words during His crucifixion and the pertinent scripture references that accompany it.
Unwavering Assurance of God's Presence
The Scriptures underscore, with strong emphasis, the enduring presence of God, consistently walking alongside those who remain steadfast in faith. In the Book of Deuteronomy, Moses delivers a potent reminder of God’s unwavering support, emphasizing that God “will not fail thee, nor forsake thee” (Deuteronomy 31:6). A similar sentiment is echoed in the Book of Hebrews, instilling a sense of contentment and trust in God’s eternal presence (Hebrews 13:5).
However, it is also acknowledged that individuals can choose to depart from God’s guidance, as cautioned in the Book of Jeremiah, which mentions the possibility of turning into a "degenerate plant of a strange vine" (Jeremiah 2:21), representing a deviation from the righteous path. To be clear, in the aforementioned scenario, it is not God who is forsaking; it is the individual or group.
Jesus on the Cross: A Reference to Psalm 22
As Jesus endured excruciating pain on the cross, He voiced a heart-wrenching cry, with the initial verses of Psalm 22, evoking a vivid and terrible picture of emotions and the rich history documented in the scriptures. Referencing Psalm 22 was far more than an articulation of pain; it was a metaleptic strategy urging individuals to ponder the entire narrative that transcends from distress to a strong affirmation of God’s faithful and attentive nature.
Psalm 22: The Transition from Distress to Divine Assurance
Embarking on a detailed exploration of Psalm 22, one witnesses a journey from anguish to affirmation of God’s unfaltering presence. A significant pivot occurs at verse 24, where it is emphasized that God does not "despise" nor "abhor" the affliction of the afflicted, illustrating a God who is deeply compassionate and responsive to the anguished cries of humanity. If Psalm 22 is messianic, and it is, then it is impossible to conclude that God forsook Jesus on the cross. The only reasonable conclusion is Jesus is still teaching and encouraging, even in His darkest hour. The battle is not lost, hope is not lost, I AM victorious despite all outward evidence to the contrary.
Encouragement through Affirmation
The scriptural journey we traverse unveils a highly encouraging narrative, teaching that those who walk in righteousness will always find God by their side, attentive and responsive. It affirms an eternal truth that when one cries out to God, He hears, setting a foundation of trust and hope even in moments of deep despair. Jesus’ words are brought to mind, “…with God all things are possible,” and, even thought they are somewhat appropriated, the words of Paul, “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me” (Matthew 19:24; Philippians 4:13).
Conclusion
Delving into the narrative woven through the scriptures, we find a recurring affirmation: God steadfastly remains with the faithful, offering a source of abiding comfort and encouragement.
In examining Jesus’ utterances on the cross, a central theme surfaces, grounded in the rich symbolism of Psalm 22; God’s presence is a constant, even in moments of perceived abandonment. It bears a testament to an omnipresent deity, listening, understanding, and deeply attuned to the human anguish.
The crucifixion scene, marked by the invocation of Psalm 22, serves as a nexus of deep scriptural interconnections, encouraging believers to place unwavering trust in God's salvation plan. It invites individuals to foster a relationship with God anchored in faith, offering not only a source of comfort but an invitation to a deeper communion with the Divine.
By delving deeply into the scriptures, one unveils a comforting truth: God remains a steadfast companion in times of trial, offering solace and nurturing the spirit with the assurance of His guidance and support.