What does "Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?" reveal about Jesus' experience on the cross? Setting the Scene Matthew 27:46-47 places us at “about the ninth hour” (3 p.m.). Darkness blankets the land (Matthew 27:45), and Jesus cries out unmistakably, “‘Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?’ ”. Those nearby mishear, thinking He calls for Elijah (v. 47), yet the Gospel preserves the Aramaic words so we feel their rawness. Literal Meaning of the Cry “Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?” translates, “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?” It is: • a direct quotation of Psalm 22:1 • an audible, historical statement made by the crucified Jesus • a revelation of real anguish, not mere symbolism Fulfillment of Prophecy Psalm 22, written nearly a millennium earlier, unfolds point-by-point around the cross: • Mockers (Psalm 22:7-8; Matthew 27:39-43) • Pierced hands and feet (Psalm 22:16; John 20:25-27) • Casting lots for clothing (Psalm 22:18; Matthew 27:35) By citing its first verse aloud, Jesus deliberately signals that this entire psalm is being fulfilled in real time. Depth of Jesus’ Suffering The cry shows layers of pain: • Physical agony from crucifixion • Emotional isolation—disciples scattered, crowds jeering • Spiritual forsakenness—the sinless Son bearing the world’s sin experiences separation from the Father’s favorable presence (2 Corinthians 5:21; Isaiah 53:4-6) His suffering is complete and comprehensive, reaching the core of human alienation from God. The Reality of Substitution • “Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us” (Galatians 3:13). • Our sin deserved abandonment; Jesus willingly takes that place. • The Father’s momentary forsaking of the Son secures the believer’s eternal acceptance (Hebrews 10:19-22). Jesus’ Continued Trust in the Father Even in desolation He says, “My God.” Relationship remains; faith persists. Psalm 22 itself moves from lament to praise (verses 22-31), foreshadowing resurrection hope (Acts 2:24-28). Assurance for Believers Today Because Jesus entered our forsakenness: • “I will never leave you nor forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5). • No accusation can now separate us from God’s love (Romans 8:31-39). • We can voice our own laments, confident God hears and answers (Psalm 34:17-18). Key Takeaways • The cry is literal, prophetic, and purposeful. • It exposes the full horror of sin and the full extent of divine love. • Jesus’ forsakenness means believers will never be forsaken. |
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