"I Thirst" | Saying #5 (7 Last Words of Jesus)

Summary

In this reflection on Jesus’ words 'I thirst' from the cross, the speaker explores three possible interpretations: the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy, Jesus’ physical need during crucifixion, and His willingness to fully surrender to God’s plan. The message highlights how even in suffering, God’s will is being carried out, and how human desires, while real, cannot satisfy the thirst for true fulfillment, which can only be found in God. Ultimately, Jesus' thirst could also signify His preparation to deliver His final, world-changing statements, ensuring clarity in His last moments.

Takeaways

• 😀 Jesus' words 'I thirst' on the cross are among the most difficult sayings to interpret.
• 😀 One possible interpretation is that 'I thirst' fulfills the prophecy in Psalm 69:21, showing that God's plan is unfolding behind the scenes.
• 😀 The fulfillment of prophecy highlights that, even in chaos, God is working for His divine will.
• 😀 A second interpretation is that Jesus was expressing physical thirst due to the extreme dehydration caused by crucifixion.
• 😀 Crucifixion leads to physical suffering, including lung collapse and heart failure, resulting in severe dehydration.
• 😀 'I thirst' can also be seen as a symbol of the deeper thirst we have for love, companionship, status, possessions, or significance.
• 😀 Despite our earthly thirsts, true fulfillment comes only from what Jesus offers, not from material or temporary things.
• 😀 A third interpretation is that Jesus' words express His complete willingness to fulfill God's plan, even through suffering.
• 😀 Jesus' thirst could represent His readiness to endure the 'cup of suffering' and follow God's will, no matter the pain.
• 😀 The statement 'I thirst' may have also been necessary for Jesus to properly announce His final declarations: 'It is finished' and 'Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.'
• 😀 Jesus' desire for something to drink before making His final statements ensures His words are clearly heard and impactful, marking a significant moment in history.

Q & A

What does the phrase 'I thirst' spoken by Jesus on the cross represent?

The phrase 'I thirst' can be interpreted in several ways. It may refer to a physical need for water, a fulfillment of prophecy, or Jesus' willingness to fully surrender to God's plan of suffering and sacrifice.

How does the phrase 'I thirst' fulfill Old Testament prophecy?

In Psalm 69:21, it is written, 'When I was thirsty, they gave me vinegar to drink.' Jesus' utterance of 'I thirst' on the cross is seen by some as a fulfillment of this prophecy, where He experiences thirst and is given vinegar to drink.

What physical condition might have caused Jesus to express thirst on the cross?

The physical condition resulting from crucifixion causes extreme dehydration. As the lungs begin to collapse and the heart fails, the body experiences severe thirst. Jesus' words 'I thirst' may reflect this painful physical need.

What can we learn from the fulfillment of prophecy in Jesus' statement 'I thirst'?

The fulfillment of prophecy shows that even in chaotic and painful moments, God is behind the scenes ensuring His divine will is carried out. It reminds us that God is always working, even when we don't understand His plan.

How does Jesus' statement 'I thirst' relate to human desires?

Many people thirst for things like love, companionship, wealth, or status. However, Jesus' statement suggests that no earthly possession or relationship can fully satisfy our deepest needs. True fulfillment comes from God's provision, not from worldly desires.

What is the significance of Jesus' willingness to drink from the 'cup of suffering'?

Jesus' willingness to accept the 'cup of suffering' represents His complete surrender to God's will. Despite the anticipated pain, He was ready to fulfill the divine purpose, showing His commitment to the Father's plan of salvation.

How does the phrase 'I thirst' relate to the concept of sacrifice in Jesus' life?

'I thirst' reflects Jesus' willingness to sacrifice His life for the salvation of humanity. His thirst could symbolize His readiness to endure the suffering required to fulfill God's plan of redemption.

What might Jesus' statement 'I thirst' indicate about the importance of His final words?

Jesus' statement 'I thirst' may have been a way to prepare His body to speak the crucial final words: 'It is finished' and 'Father, into Your hands I commit My spirit.' The physical thirst could be linked to the need to speak these important declarations clearly and with strength.

Why is the phrase 'I thirst' considered one of the most difficult sayings of Jesus to interpret?

The phrase 'I thirst' is challenging to interpret because it could have multiple layers of meaning. It might refer to physical thirst, spiritual longing, fulfillment of prophecy, or even Jesus' deep desire to fulfill God's plan, making it complex to fully understand.

What does the phrase 'I thirst' teach us about finding true satisfaction in life?

The phrase 'I thirst' teaches that while we may thirst for various things in life, true satisfaction can only come from God. The things we desire on earth may temporarily fill us, but they cannot provide lasting fulfillment like what Jesus offers.