“Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing…” (Luke 23:34 NIV1984). Amidst great suffering and agony, our crucified Lord spoke those kind and merciful words. But why? The Roman soldiers spat on Him, beat Him, ridiculed Him and mockingly thrust a crown of thorns on His head. Later, at the scene of the crucifixion, they, along with the curious onlookers and the religious leaders, derided Him, saying, “…He saved others; let him save himself if he is the Christ of God, the Chosen One” (Luke 23:35). He certainly could have, but He didn’t. So why did He utter those words?
The simple, yet profound, reason is love. “For God so loved the world the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16). That kind of love is beyond comprehension.
We were included in that group that needed His mercy. We may not have put Him on the cross, but we were undeserving of His grace and mercy, “God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Rom. 5:8).
Jesus said His enemies did not know what they were doing because had they known, He would not have been crucified. They were ignorant of this fact: “God did not send His Son into the world to is condemn the world, but to save the world through him” (John 3:17). They hated — He loved.
Satan thought he had won the war, seeing the Son of God hanging on that cross, but he thought wrong. All God’s enemies were wrong. When Jesus arose from the grave, He was the Victor! Not only did He conquer death and the grave, but He also atoned for our sins and gave us assurance of eternal life. “He was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed” (Isaiah 53:5).
Stephen, a man full of God’s grace and power, was stoned to death by an enraged mob who considered him harmful to their own teaching. As they stoned him, he cried out, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them” (Acts 7:60). Did not Jesus set the example to forgive one’s enemies? Even though our sinful nature rebels against forgiving those who do wrong, we are still accountable for doing so. “Forgive as the Lord forgave you” (Colossians 3:13).
I bring all this into perspective as I think of the recent assassination of Charlie Kirk, a dedicated Christian who made an impact on those who heard him — especially young people. Those who celebrate his death are quick to spew hateful words, distort the truth of his message, vandalize memorials honoring him and wish death upon his family. Their deeds are evil. Their hate is real; Charlie’s was not. Instead of bringing an end to his message of truth, they have inadvertently brought on a renewed zeal for Jesus. As the gospel spread even more after the stoning of Stephen, the work of Charlie Kirk will go on — stronger than ever. Victory always belongs to the Lord.
For all who are hated for righteousness’ sake, remember Jesus’ words: “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first” (John 15:18). Also, “the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world” (I John 4:4). Still, Jesus seeks to save all who are lost and willingly forgives those who repent of their sins.
