The Cry of Jesus: Understanding Matthew 27:46

In Matthew 27:46, Jesus cries out to God, “Why have you forsaken me?” Did He lose faith?

As Catholics, we often encounter questions that seem to challenge the nature of Jesus Christ and His relationship with God. One such question arises from Matthew 27:46, where Jesus cries out from the cross, “Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?” or “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (Matthew 27:46). Some interpret this phrase as evidence that Jesus lost faith in God during His darkest moment. However, a closer examination of Scripture reveals a more profound truth.

A Cry of Suffering, Not Doubt

To understand Jesus’ words, we must consider the context. As He hung on the cross, bearing the weight of humanity’s sins, Jesus experienced unimaginable physical and spiritual suffering. His cry was not one of doubt or lost faith but rather an expression of the depth of His agony. Psalm 22, a Messianic prophecy, begins with the same words: “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (Psalm 22:1). This psalm, written by King David, describes the suffering of the righteous one, foreshadowing Jesus’ crucifixion.

The Fulfillment of Prophecy

Jesus’ cry is a direct reference to Psalm 22, indicating that He saw Himself as the fulfillment of this prophecy. By quoting the psalm, Jesus reaffirmed His commitment to God’s plan and acknowledged the temporary separation He felt from the Father due to the weight of sin. This separation was necessary for redemption, as stated in 2 Corinthians 5:21: “For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.”

The Unity of Jesus’ Human and Divine Nature

Some may argue that Jesus’ words suggest a separation between His human and divine nature. However, Scripture affirms the hypostatic union – the indivisible union of Jesus’ human and divine natures (John 1:1-14, Hebrews 1:1-3). Jesus’ cry did not indicate a division within Himself but rather expressed the human experience of suffering, while remaining fully divine.

Faith Amidst Suffering

Jesus’ cry from the cross demonstrates His faithfulness, even in the midst of unimaginable suffering. Hebrews 5:7-8 describes Jesus’ prayer and sacrifice: “In the days of his flesh, Jesus offered up prayers and supplications, with loud cries and tears, to him who was able to save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverence.” Jesus’ faith was not shaken; instead, He entrusted Himself to God, even when He felt forsaken.

Conclusion

Matthew 27:46 does not suggest that Jesus lost faith in God. Rather, it highlights His willingness to endure suffering for humanity’s redemption, fulfilling prophecy and demonstrating His unwavering commitment to God’s plan. As Catholic apologists, we affirm that Jesus’ cry from the cross was a manifestation of His humanity, united to His divinity, and a testament to His unshakeable faith in the Father.

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Note: While content aims to align with Catholic teachings, any inconsistencies or errors are unintended. For precise understanding, always refer to authoritative sources like the Catechism of the Catholic Church. Always double-check any quotes for word-for-word accuracy with the Bible or the Catechism of the Catholic Church.