One of the greatest problems among human beings today is that when wrongs are done to us, revenge is sought rather than forgiveness being offered.

But here, Jesus introduces in his first word from the cross, a special sort of forgiveness. Why does he say: "Father forgive them, for they know not what they do" at a very horrible and painful moment when the nails are piercing his hands and feet, nailing him to the cross of wood in the most cruel and indescribable way? This is totally contrary to the way any of us acts!

When we are hurt, what do we do? We shout. We reply in kind. We want to hurt others as much they as they have hurt us. But here, there is no animosity, no resentment, and no hatred on the part of Jesus.

Can you see the great compassion of the Lord Jesus Christ for lost humanity in these words in which he said, "Father forgive them, for they know not what they do." And here, the most surprising thing is that the Lord of history, who could have called down legions of angels to deliver him from the cross, instead exercises a unique forgiveness!

In this exposition of the if the first word of Christ on the Cross, Dr. Paul Wells wants us to consider three main points about this unique prayer: Its purpose Its effects Its power.