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Last Words of Jesus: First Steps to a Richer Life
The last words of anyone are a powerful legacy, often reverberating across generations. However, the last words of Jesus soar above all others because of who He was—and is. In the Last Words of Jesus , you’ll experience a fresh encounter with Christ as Stu Epperson recounts the last seven statements uttered by Jesus on the cross, providing unique, thought-provoking insights, and interspersing additional commentaries from many of Christianity’s leading theologians and authors. This one-stop resource and devotional will help you understand more deeply...
- GenresChristian
176 pages, Hardcover
First published February 17, 2015
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
January 13, 2015
Have you ever thought of the significance of the last words of Jesus as he died on the cross? Seven statements from Jesus as he was suffering that hold an enormousness amount life from the tree of death. The seven statements start with a prayer…
Father forgive them; for they know what they do…His ministry is always in prayer even death on the cross and the prayer is for those who hate him. His prayer is on forgiveness. Jesus example gives us a true picture of what authentic forgives really is. Forgiveness is hard, because it attacks who we are and what we feel we are owed. Jesus’ example takes our futile attempts of forgiveness and challenges us to put our faith on what Christ did. You realize how can I not forgive.
Thou shall be with me in Paradise… these words are my favorite. On this chapter, Mr. Epperson’s insight on the significance of the 3 crosses is the state of all men; the unredeemed, the redeemed and the Redeemer. The response of the two robbers signifies our response to Christ. One says Save Yourself! Do we say that in our lives? We may say it in other ways like “This isn’t the best way”, Fix my circumstances and put me in control”. Save yourself is a self-serving salvation. It seeks reprieve from certain judgment and punishment. I deserve better. The 2nd thief knows who he is in relation to Christ. He pleads for salvation and looks forward to the promise of the Kingdom.
Woman, Behold Thy Son! Disciple Thy Mother!.. This is the social justice of Christ. The world loves social justice however it despises the things of God. What is true social justice? And how is it different from the world’s social justice. There are many people that are doing good things however; the same people do not recognize their need for salvation.
My God, My God, Why hast thou Forsaken Me…The cross signifies that there is suffering and the cause of suffering of living apart from God. Jesus is forsaken so that we have a way not to be forsaken.
I Thirst…Begs to ask the question, what do you thirst for? In the suffering, Jesus longing is for the will of God and redemption.
It is Finished…Because it is finished, I do not have to strive. I can rest. I don’t have to read about someone’s visit to heaven in order to believe what Jesus already says is true. It in it is finished is all things that I will never finish or complete. It’s not about performance based acceptance-me performing and God liking me and accepting me. It’s about acceptance-based performance. I accept Jesus work on the cross in his life and sacrifice.
Father into Thy Hands I commend My Spirit…Because it is finished, I have peace.
With each chapter, there are scriptural reflections on the Last Words of Jesus and questions to challenge your application. The significance of the words of Christ will better help you understand the work of Christ.
A special thank you Worthy Publishing, and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Father forgive them; for they know what they do…His ministry is always in prayer even death on the cross and the prayer is for those who hate him. His prayer is on forgiveness. Jesus example gives us a true picture of what authentic forgives really is. Forgiveness is hard, because it attacks who we are and what we feel we are owed. Jesus’ example takes our futile attempts of forgiveness and challenges us to put our faith on what Christ did. You realize how can I not forgive.
Thou shall be with me in Paradise… these words are my favorite. On this chapter, Mr. Epperson’s insight on the significance of the 3 crosses is the state of all men; the unredeemed, the redeemed and the Redeemer. The response of the two robbers signifies our response to Christ. One says Save Yourself! Do we say that in our lives? We may say it in other ways like “This isn’t the best way”, Fix my circumstances and put me in control”. Save yourself is a self-serving salvation. It seeks reprieve from certain judgment and punishment. I deserve better. The 2nd thief knows who he is in relation to Christ. He pleads for salvation and looks forward to the promise of the Kingdom.
Woman, Behold Thy Son! Disciple Thy Mother!.. This is the social justice of Christ. The world loves social justice however it despises the things of God. What is true social justice? And how is it different from the world’s social justice. There are many people that are doing good things however; the same people do not recognize their need for salvation.
My God, My God, Why hast thou Forsaken Me…The cross signifies that there is suffering and the cause of suffering of living apart from God. Jesus is forsaken so that we have a way not to be forsaken.
I Thirst…Begs to ask the question, what do you thirst for? In the suffering, Jesus longing is for the will of God and redemption.
It is Finished…Because it is finished, I do not have to strive. I can rest. I don’t have to read about someone’s visit to heaven in order to believe what Jesus already says is true. It in it is finished is all things that I will never finish or complete. It’s not about performance based acceptance-me performing and God liking me and accepting me. It’s about acceptance-based performance. I accept Jesus work on the cross in his life and sacrifice.
Father into Thy Hands I commend My Spirit…Because it is finished, I have peace.
With each chapter, there are scriptural reflections on the Last Words of Jesus and questions to challenge your application. The significance of the words of Christ will better help you understand the work of Christ.
A special thank you Worthy Publishing, and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 16, 2015
I have never really thought too deeply into the last few phrases that Jesus spoke before his death on the cross. In this book, Stu details the words and their meanings. He shows us why they were so significant. Jesus never did anything that was of no significance. So, what are they? What did they mean?
Each chapter focuses on one of the seven phrases. It also includes discussion questions and some scriptural reflections with each chapter. I would imagine it is probably a great book to do with a small group. Reading on my own, I felt a little detached. I am not sure why. I felt like the information was a little scattered and I didn’t quite get all of the significant implications that he was trying to point out. Within a group setting, I believe it would be different.
I do think it is an important read because we don’t often think about His final words. So often, we gloss over the crucifixion with rhetoric we have heard our whole lives and we become disconnected with the power and raw affliction he bore to free us. To bestow His love on us and give us the promise of HIM for all of eternity.
I challenge you to spend some time reflecting on the last words of Christ as He took every ounce of persecution and discipline that we would have had if it were not for Him and His great love.
The Last Words of Jesus: First Steps To A Richer Life will be available on Feb. 24th. Please pick up a copy.
Thank you, so much, Worthy Publishing, for sending me this book. As always, this is my honest opinion. Here’s to many more!!
Each chapter focuses on one of the seven phrases. It also includes discussion questions and some scriptural reflections with each chapter. I would imagine it is probably a great book to do with a small group. Reading on my own, I felt a little detached. I am not sure why. I felt like the information was a little scattered and I didn’t quite get all of the significant implications that he was trying to point out. Within a group setting, I believe it would be different.
I do think it is an important read because we don’t often think about His final words. So often, we gloss over the crucifixion with rhetoric we have heard our whole lives and we become disconnected with the power and raw affliction he bore to free us. To bestow His love on us and give us the promise of HIM for all of eternity.
I challenge you to spend some time reflecting on the last words of Christ as He took every ounce of persecution and discipline that we would have had if it were not for Him and His great love.
The Last Words of Jesus: First Steps To A Richer Life will be available on Feb. 24th. Please pick up a copy.
Thank you, so much, Worthy Publishing, for sending me this book. As always, this is my honest opinion. Here’s to many more!!
February 24, 2015
***An excellent choice for the Lenten season!***
Stu Epperson, Jr., president and founder of The Truth Network and radio host of Truth Talk Live, also attends a weekly Bible study group, "Wednesday in the Word." That is where his new devotional, Last Words of Jesus was "born, taught, and lived in real life with real men." The books thought-provoking insights focus on the "last seven statements uttered by Jesus on the cross." Which makes it a perfect choice for the Lenten season when Christians prepare to celebrate Easter.
Dr. David Jeremiah, writes in the foreword that a person's final words represent and reveal "either the hope or hopelessness" of a life that is ending when all hope is gone and death approaches. However, none are more so than the last statements of Christ, writes Epperson, "because of who He was—and is."
Seven brief chapters on "prayer, pardon, paternity, pain, passion, perfection and peace," portray an overall theme Epperson summarizes with these words. "Seven words of life from the tree of death." His narrow focus…Full Review: http://www.examiner.com/list/epperson...
Stu Epperson, Jr., president and founder of The Truth Network and radio host of Truth Talk Live, also attends a weekly Bible study group, "Wednesday in the Word." That is where his new devotional, Last Words of Jesus was "born, taught, and lived in real life with real men." The books thought-provoking insights focus on the "last seven statements uttered by Jesus on the cross." Which makes it a perfect choice for the Lenten season when Christians prepare to celebrate Easter.
Dr. David Jeremiah, writes in the foreword that a person's final words represent and reveal "either the hope or hopelessness" of a life that is ending when all hope is gone and death approaches. However, none are more so than the last statements of Christ, writes Epperson, "because of who He was—and is."
Seven brief chapters on "prayer, pardon, paternity, pain, passion, perfection and peace," portray an overall theme Epperson summarizes with these words. "Seven words of life from the tree of death." His narrow focus…Full Review: http://www.examiner.com/list/epperson...
February 19, 2015
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Worthy Publishing in exchange for my honest review.
Have you ever thought about the last words of Jesus? As He was dying on the cross Jesus uttered just a few last words before His death.
Stu Epperson Jr. invites the reader to take a deep look at those words and not simply read them.
Jesus forgives His killers, takes care of His mom, and shows His humanity.
For example, Jesus says, "I thirst" while on the cross. Think about that. The Living Water is saying He is thirsty. Epperson points out that the One who said to come to Him and never thirst again...is thirsty. The magnitude of that statement should not be lost and the casual reader would do well to dwell on the power of that thought: the Living Water is thirsty.
It is nuggets like these that Epperson points out to the reader so that they can fall deeper in love with their Savior.
Have you ever thought about the last words of Jesus? As He was dying on the cross Jesus uttered just a few last words before His death.
Stu Epperson Jr. invites the reader to take a deep look at those words and not simply read them.
Jesus forgives His killers, takes care of His mom, and shows His humanity.
For example, Jesus says, "I thirst" while on the cross. Think about that. The Living Water is saying He is thirsty. Epperson points out that the One who said to come to Him and never thirst again...is thirsty. The magnitude of that statement should not be lost and the casual reader would do well to dwell on the power of that thought: the Living Water is thirsty.
It is nuggets like these that Epperson points out to the reader so that they can fall deeper in love with their Savior.
March 31, 2016
I heard the author on the Eric Metaxas show. He was so enthusiastic about the book and how it affected his life. He read the book on Hoopla. This was a good book to read during Easter weekend. Very devotional. Some good insights. He brings social justice, clean water.
He has some powerful quotes from other authors and speakers. He also wrote some pithy statements especially in the chapter, "I thirst." He did a lot of thinking writing this book.
He has some powerful quotes from other authors and speakers. He also wrote some pithy statements especially in the chapter, "I thirst." He did a lot of thinking writing this book.
March 16, 2018
Abandoned after an hour or so on audiobook. Did not enjoy the writing at all. Can only describe it as "cheesy" and imprecise, though of course the content has great potential. Look elsewhere for a book on the last words of Jesus from the cross.
December 20, 2022
I didn’t read the description well enough I guess. I thought it was going to be more historical and less sermon
February 17, 2015
Have you ever heard a story so many times that you cringe when someone starts to share the same news all over again? I heard messages and stories about God’s will, presenting our bodies as a living sacrifice, and the cross so often (I grew up in a Christian home) that even as an adult, I still try to dodge hearing them all over again. I know that may sound horrible, but it’s the honest truth. I think to myself: “Please. No! Not again.”
Now don’t get me wrong. I love the story of the cross but the shared narratives often and almost always come packaged in the same monotonous way. This is why I was not eager to read and review the new book Last Words of Jesus; however, it didn’t take long for me to realize that Stu Epperson’s journey would be no ordinary or boring adventure. Every chapter led me to think about the cross and Savior in new and challenging ways.
The author walks us through seven lessons left through the last words of Jesus: lessons about prayer, pardon, paternity, pain, passion, perfection, and peace. Some of my favorite quotes form the book include:
“The second thief’s simple request as a response of faith brushes aside all our modern ‘sinner’s prayer’ rules.”
“In an instant, a common, worthless, condemned thief becomes a royal son of the Most high and is given a promise of eternal paradise.”
“Amid his pain and suffering, Jesus cares for Mary’s pain and suffering. Care for the widow and orphan is directed from Christ Himself at his darkest moment.
My favorite chapter talks about Jesus asking “Why?” The author reminds us that “it is at the foot of the Cross that all why questions find their answer.” He shares Martin Luther’s agonizing proclamation: “God forsaken by God, how can this be?” Jesus who made the world was being unmade. But, don’t worry. This chapter and several other pages in the book don’t leave you hanging, they contain powerful words of grace and encouragement.
Maybe you’re a little or a lot like me and you rather not hear it or read it all again. Consider giving the story of the Cross another chance. Grab a copy of Last Words of Jesus by Stu Epperson and find yourself loving the tale all over again. Better yet, each chapter comes with its own set of discussion questions so you can take the journey with others.
Now don’t get me wrong. I love the story of the cross but the shared narratives often and almost always come packaged in the same monotonous way. This is why I was not eager to read and review the new book Last Words of Jesus; however, it didn’t take long for me to realize that Stu Epperson’s journey would be no ordinary or boring adventure. Every chapter led me to think about the cross and Savior in new and challenging ways.
The author walks us through seven lessons left through the last words of Jesus: lessons about prayer, pardon, paternity, pain, passion, perfection, and peace. Some of my favorite quotes form the book include:
“The second thief’s simple request as a response of faith brushes aside all our modern ‘sinner’s prayer’ rules.”
“In an instant, a common, worthless, condemned thief becomes a royal son of the Most high and is given a promise of eternal paradise.”
“Amid his pain and suffering, Jesus cares for Mary’s pain and suffering. Care for the widow and orphan is directed from Christ Himself at his darkest moment.
My favorite chapter talks about Jesus asking “Why?” The author reminds us that “it is at the foot of the Cross that all why questions find their answer.” He shares Martin Luther’s agonizing proclamation: “God forsaken by God, how can this be?” Jesus who made the world was being unmade. But, don’t worry. This chapter and several other pages in the book don’t leave you hanging, they contain powerful words of grace and encouragement.
Maybe you’re a little or a lot like me and you rather not hear it or read it all again. Consider giving the story of the Cross another chance. Grab a copy of Last Words of Jesus by Stu Epperson and find yourself loving the tale all over again. Better yet, each chapter comes with its own set of discussion questions so you can take the journey with others.
February 16, 2015
As we head into the Lenten season, a lot of us begin to turn our thoughts toward the cross of Christ, what happened there, and all that it means. This book is another chance to take a fresh look at what are often called the "seven last words of Christ," those excruciating cries from the cross.
I was not familiar with Stu Epperson before receiving this book. He is, according to the biography, a radio host and founder of "The Truth Network." As such, his desire in writing this book is to reach those who have not yet had a chance to respond to Jesus by somewhat devotionally thinking through these "last words." I do not know if that goal was reached, as much of the language seemed to be "insider language" without a lot of explanation for those who might not have before encountered these "last words."
Epperson's writing is easy to read and, despite putting snatches of poetry and hymnody in odd places, catches the spirit of the material quite well. There are things that are left out that, as a pastor, I would have liked to see included (such as more attention to the setting of the saying, and why each Gospel writer included what they did), but those issues may have been distracting from the overall narrative.
There is not much new here, but when you're approaching Lent and the Cross, perhaps "new" is not what one is looking for. I do appreciate his focus on these "final words" being "words of life from the tree of death," a reminder that this cross is not the end. It is only a beginning. That is a theme that echoes clearly throughout the book.
Each chapter ends with a couple of pages of selected Scripture verses (without context) and a page of questions, presumably for personal reflection or for group discussion. For someone looking for an easy-to-read reflection or devotional guide for the season of Lent, this book would be a welcome addition.
FULL DISCLOSURE: I was provided a copy of this book for an unbiased review. No only compensation was provided.
I was not familiar with Stu Epperson before receiving this book. He is, according to the biography, a radio host and founder of "The Truth Network." As such, his desire in writing this book is to reach those who have not yet had a chance to respond to Jesus by somewhat devotionally thinking through these "last words." I do not know if that goal was reached, as much of the language seemed to be "insider language" without a lot of explanation for those who might not have before encountered these "last words."
Epperson's writing is easy to read and, despite putting snatches of poetry and hymnody in odd places, catches the spirit of the material quite well. There are things that are left out that, as a pastor, I would have liked to see included (such as more attention to the setting of the saying, and why each Gospel writer included what they did), but those issues may have been distracting from the overall narrative.
There is not much new here, but when you're approaching Lent and the Cross, perhaps "new" is not what one is looking for. I do appreciate his focus on these "final words" being "words of life from the tree of death," a reminder that this cross is not the end. It is only a beginning. That is a theme that echoes clearly throughout the book.
Each chapter ends with a couple of pages of selected Scripture verses (without context) and a page of questions, presumably for personal reflection or for group discussion. For someone looking for an easy-to-read reflection or devotional guide for the season of Lent, this book would be a welcome addition.
FULL DISCLOSURE: I was provided a copy of this book for an unbiased review. No only compensation was provided.
April 29, 2019
Words of Life and the Tree of Death
Seven Words of Life He cried,
Seven Words with His last breath.
Seven Words as Jesus died,
Seven Words of Life from the Tree of Death.
Epperson introduces his book with a simple piece of original poetry. The book is extremely easy to read, and the flow of his thoughts are easy to follow. I appreciated the way he used supporting Scriptures to enhance the content of each chapter. The verses he selected were wisely used without either forcing the point or forsaking the context. If Jesus’ seven statements from the cross are not familiar to you, this book provides an excellent springboard for diving into the subject.
Seven Words of Life He cried,
Seven Words with His last breath.
Seven Words as Jesus died,
Seven Words of Life from the Tree of Death.
Epperson introduces his book with a simple piece of original poetry. The book is extremely easy to read, and the flow of his thoughts are easy to follow. I appreciated the way he used supporting Scriptures to enhance the content of each chapter. The verses he selected were wisely used without either forcing the point or forsaking the context. If Jesus’ seven statements from the cross are not familiar to you, this book provides an excellent springboard for diving into the subject.
April 3, 2015
The Last Words of Jesus was a great book to read during Passion Week. I enjoyed the insights into the last words of our Lord before His death for our sins. The author supplied Bible verses to complement each chapter and there were study questions as well.
I would recommend this book to anyone wishing to learn more about the words of Jesus from the cross.
I received this book free from Goodreads First Reads.
I would recommend this book to anyone wishing to learn more about the words of Jesus from the cross.
I received this book free from Goodreads First Reads.
March 26, 2015
Easy reading. Enjoyed it. I received this book through Good Reads
February 1, 2016
A bit confusing as to what were the last seven words that jesusbspoke or were they sentences/statements.
The overall theme was good and the writing was excellent.
The overall theme was good and the writing was excellent.
April 5, 2016
I've been reading this book through Lent and it's been a valuable text as I've had many moments of praise and worship through it.
May 11, 2025
This is a definite think book. You must think about your relationship with God and with Jesus. You have no choice. A must read for anyone lurking on the edge of belief in God.
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews