James Fetterly's sermon, "The Word of Forgiveness" delves into the profound and multifaceted nature of Jesus Christ's death on the cross. Fetterly begins by reflecting on the nature of Christ's death as both a natural outcome of His incarnation and a unique event. Unlike every other human, Jesus, being sinless, did not die for His own sins but as a spotless lamb, taking upon Himself the sins of humanity. This death was not only unique but also miraculous and supernatural, preordained before the foundation of the world and executed with Jesus's own authority over life and death.
The sermon then moves to an examination of Luke chapter 23, verses 32 through 43, highlighting Jesus's word of forgiveness from the cross despite the merciless insults hurled at Him by various groups: the bystanders, religious leaders, soldiers, and even the criminals crucified alongside Him. Fetterly underscores the mercy and forgiveness Jesus demonstrated, praying for those who persecuted Him in ignorance, fulfilling prophecies, and exemplifying His teachings on forgiveness.
Fetterly points to Acts 2 and 4, noting the fulfillment of Jesus's prayer as thousands in Jerusalem, including religious leaders and possibly soldiers, came to faith after Pentecost, showcasing the power of Christ's forgiveness and the spread of the Gospel.
The sermon further explores the significance of forgiveness as foretold in Isaiah 53 and manifested on the cross, emphasizing Jesus's role as an intercessor for humanity. Fetterly discusses how Jesus, by asking the Father to forgive, shows His identification with humanity and His fulfillment of the divine requirement for atonement for sins, including those committed in ignorance.
Fetterly draws practical insights from Jesus's actions, reminding believers of the importance of praying for others, even in the absence of their repentance, and highlights the human heart's need for forgiveness and redemption through Christ. He concludes with a call to recognize and receive the redeeming love and forgiveness offered by God through Jesus Christ, inviting listeners to embrace the grace that transforms lives and secures eternal fellowship with God.
In summary, Fetterly's sermon on "The Word of Forgiveness" is a deep reflection on the significance of Jesus's death, focusing on the themes of forgiveness, redemption, and the transformative power of God's love, as demonstrated through Christ's ultimate sacrifice.
