The Daily Blade: Joby Martin & Kyle Thompson Episode #69 - "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do." Release Date: April 7, 2025

Introduction

In Episode #69 of The Daily Blade, hosts Joby Martin of the Church of Eleven22 and Kyle Thompson of Undaunted.Life delve into profound reflections as Easter approaches. The episode centers on the “seven sayings of Christ on the cross,” a series of statements made by Jesus during his crucifixion. The hosts outline a plan to explore these seven sayings over five days, aiming to provide listeners with deep spiritual insights and practical applications for their daily lives.

Exploring the Seven Sayings of Christ on the Cross

1. "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do."

Kyle Thompson initiates the discussion by referencing Luke 23:32-34, highlighting the first of Jesus' seven sayings:

"Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do." (Luke 23:34) [00:20]

He emphasizes the significance of this statement, urging listeners to contemplate the depth of Jesus' love and his request for forgiveness on behalf of his persecutors.

The Historical Context of Crucifixion

Thompson provides a detailed exposition of the Roman crucifixion process to underscore the extreme suffering endured by Jesus:

• Mechanics of Crucifixion:

  • Nails piercing hands and feet.
  • Erection of the cross beams at the execution site.
  • The prolonged agony leading to asphyxiation as the primary cause of death, not blood loss.

• Psychological Warfare:

  • The Romans perfected crucifixion as a means of deterrence.
  • Public executions served to maintain control and suppress dissent.

Thompson remarks on the etymology of the term "excruciating," stating:

"In fact, the word excruciating comes from the root word crucifixion, which means to suffer, to face extraordinary pain." (04:00)

This connection underscores the unimaginable pain Jesus endured, reinforcing the sacrificial nature of his death.

Jesus’ Purpose in Crucifixion

Challenging common perceptions, Thompson argues that Jesus' mission transcended being merely a moral teacher or a historical figure. Instead, his primary objective was salvation through sacrificial atonement:

• Fulfillment of Prophecy:

  • Jesus lived a sinless life, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies and promises.
  • Consistently resisted every temptation, aligning with God's will.

• Voluntary Suffering:

  • Chose not to summon divine intervention during his trial.
  • Accepted physical abuse and humiliation, including the crown of thorns and scourging.

Thompson elucidates the concept of substitutionary atonement:

"When Jesus Christ died on the cross, he was the substitutionary atoning sacrifice for you and me." (02:45)

He explains that "atonement" involves Jesus taking upon himself the sins of humanity, thereby satisfying divine justice and enabling believers to attain righteousness.

Substitutionary Atonement Explained

Delving deeper into theological implications, Thompson clarifies how Jesus’ death bridges the gap between sinners and an all-just God:

• Sin Debt:

  • Humanity's sins merit eternal punishment.
  • Jesus absorbs this punishment, offering himself as a substitute.

• Divine Justice and Mercy:

  • An almighty and holy God requires justice, which is met through atonement.
  • Mercy is extended to believers through Jesus' sacrificial act.

He poses a pivotal question to listeners:

"Do you believe it?" (04:50)

This rhetorical question invites personal reflection on accepting Jesus' sacrifice and embracing the forgiveness it offers.

Invitation to Receive Forgiveness

Concluding his message, Thompson extends an earnest invitation:

"The one thing I want you to know is that Christ died to forgive you of your sin. Would you please receive that forgiveness right now." (04:55)

This call to action encourages listeners to affirm their faith and accept the redemption offered through Jesus' crucifixion.

Conclusion

Episode #69 of The Daily Blade offers a compelling exploration of Jesus' final words on the cross, placing profound theological concepts within the stark reality of Roman crucifixion. By unpacking the historical, emotional, and spiritual layers of "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do," Joby Martin and Kyle Thompson provide listeners with a deeper understanding of sacrifice, forgiveness, and salvation. As Easter approaches, this episode serves as a poignant reminder of the foundational Christian belief in Jesus' atoning death and its transformative power for believers.

Notable Quotes:

• Kyle Thompson [00:20]:
  “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.”

• Kyle Thompson [02:45]:
  “When Jesus Christ died on the cross, he was the substitutionary atoning sacrifice for you and me.”

• Kyle Thompson [04:00]:
  “In fact, the word excruciating comes from the root word crucifixion, which means to suffer, to face extraordinary pain.”

• Kyle Thompson [04:50]:
  “Do you believe it?”

• Kyle Thompson [04:55]:
  “The one thing I want you to know is that Christ died to forgive you of your sin. Would you please receive that forgiveness right now.”

Join the Conversation:

As Joby Martin and Kyle Thompson prepare for the 2025 Men's Conference in Jacksonville, Florida, listeners are encouraged to engage with the community, share insights, and apply these theological reflections to everyday life. For more information and to secure a seat at the conference, visit mensconference.com.