Why Did Jesus Question God While Dying on the Cross?

The question, 'Why has thou forsaken me,' spoken by Jesus as he died on the cross, remains a deeply troubling moment, one that challenges our understanding of the relationship between Jesus and God. Was he voicing an existential despair or was it something more complex?

Jesus' Understanding of His Mission

For many, Jesus' suffering was a manifestation of the plan that was intricately woven into his divine mission. He knew that the path to redemption required his death, separation from his Father, and the bearing of divine wrath. Yet, this knowledge did not necessarily diminish the pain or the existential turmoil he felt during his crucifixion.

One perspective is that if Jesus is indeed God, then he should have had no doubt about the unfolding of events. However, if his statement 'Jesus is God' is challenged, it leaves us with the conclusion that Jesus was indeed a human who felt the weight of unparalleled suffering. This human vulnerability highlights the depth of his love and commitment to his mission.

Language and Historical Context

When reading the Bible, it is crucial to consider the nuances of language and historical context. In the King James Version, Jesus is referred to as 'the Son of God.' However, upon closer inspection, you might notice that the word 'the' is not present in the original Greek, rendering it 'a Son of God.' This subtle difference has profound implications.

By realizing that Jesus saw himself as 'a Son of God' rather than 'the Son of God,' we can gain a deeper understanding of his experience. This self-awareness could be seen as a reflection of a shared divine nature with all those who follow the path of righteousness. Thus, his statement may be a recognition of a common divine experience, shared with others who have faced great trials.

Key Verses:

[Note: “A Son of God” - This phrase is typically marked in italics, indicating it is supplied by the translator and not in the original text.

Matthew 1:1 - 'And the book of the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham.

Faith and Knowledge

The notion of Jesus knowing the plan of the redemption is central to Christian theology, but it does not negate the emotional and psychological complexity of his experience. Jesus was both God and human, and as a human, his experience of suffering and questioning his God was a pivotal moment in human history.

In the pre-chapter and pre-verse era of biblical manuscripts, the lack of chapter and verse divisions means that context can often be lost. By studying the text in its entirety, we can gain a more holistic understanding of the scriptures. For example, the phrase 'My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?' from Psalm 22 is often seen in the context of Jesus' crucifixion. However, this phrase has broader meaning and significance when read in the full context of the psalm.

Prophetic Fulfillment

The quotation of Psalm 22 during the crucifixion is a testament to the prophetic nature of the Bible. This psalm speaks of a deeply personal and distressing moment where even God seems distant. However, in the end, it serves as a promise of victory and triumph over suffering for those who follow God.

Thus, the question 'why has thou forsaken me' is not about Jesus not knowing the plan but about his role as the embodiment of the plan. His suffering was not in vain but part of the greater narrative of salvation.

Conclusion

The question of Jesus' experience during the crucifixion invites us to consider the intersection of faith, human suffering, and the divine plan. While the specifics of the moment are enigmatic, they challenge us to ponder the deeper truths and the holistic understanding of the scriptures.

Key Points to Remember:

Jesus' understanding of his mission was both divine and human. The phrase 'a Son of God' rather than 'the Son of God' is crucial. The Bible should be read in its entirety to understand context. The prophetic nature of Psalm 22 speaks to both personal and collective redemption.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Jesus God or a Man?

Christians believe that Jesus is both fully God and fully human, a concept known as the hypostatic union. This means that Jesus experienced all the aspects of human suffering, including emotional and psychological turmoil, while still being divine.

What is the Significance of Psalm 22 in the Bible?

Psalm 22 is significant because it prophesies the crucifixion and subsequent resurrection of Jesus. It highlights the depth of human suffering and the ultimate triumph of God.

How Should We Read the Bible?

To fully understand the scriptures, it is important to read them in their historical and cultural context. This involves looking at the surrounding verses and chapters to gain a more complete understanding.