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The Seven Sayings of the Saviour on the Cross
Biography
Pink was born in Nottingham, England on April 1, 1886 and became a Christian in 1908, at the age of 22. Though born to Christian parents, prior to conversion he migrated into a Theosophical society (an occult gnostic group popular in England during that time), and quickly rose in prominence within their ranks. His conversion came from his father's patient admonitions from Scripture. It was the verse, Proverbs 14:12, 'there is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death,' which particularly struck his heart and compelled him to renounce Theosophy and follow Jesus.
Desiring to grow in knowledge of the Bible, Pink immigrated to the United States to study at Moody Bible Institute. In 1916 he married Vera E. Russell (January 8, 1893 - July 17, 1962), who was from Kentucky. However, he left after just two months for Colorado, then California, then Britain. From 1925 to 1928 he served in Australia, including as pastor of two congregations from 1926 to 1928, when he returned to England, and to the United States the following year. He eventually pastored churches in Colorado, California, Kentucky, and South Carolina.
In 1932 he started a monthly magazine entitled Studies in the Scriptures which circulated among English-speaking Christians worldwide, though only to a relatively small circulation list of around 1,000.
In 1934 Pink returned to England, and within a few years turned his Christian service to writing books and pamphlets. Pink died in Stornoway, Scotland on July 15, 1952. The cause of death was anemia.
After Pink's death, his works were republished by a number of publishing houses, among them, Banner of Truth Trust, Baker Book House, Christian Focus Publications, Moody Press, Truth for Today, and reached a much wider audience as a result. Biographer Iain Murray observes of Pink, "the widespread circulation of his writings after his death made him one of the most influential evangelical authors in the second half of the twentieth century." His writing sparked a revival of expository preaching and focused readers' hearts on biblical living. Yet, even today, Pink is left out of most biographical dictionaries and overlooked in many religious histories.
[edit]
Pink was born in Nottingham, England on April 1, 1886 and became a Christian in 1908, at the age of 22. Though born to Christian parents, prior to conversion he migrated into a Theosophical society (an occult gnostic group popular in England during that time), and quickly rose in prominence within their ranks. His conversion came from his father's patient admonitions from Scripture. It was the verse, Proverbs 14:12, 'there is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death,' which particularly struck his heart and compelled him to renounce Theosophy and follow Jesus.
Desiring to grow in knowledge of the Bible, Pink immigrated to the United States to study at Moody Bible Institute. In 1916 he married Vera E. Russell (January 8, 1893 - July 17, 1962), who was from Kentucky. However, he left after just two months for Colorado, then California, then Britain. From 1925 to 1928 he served in Australia, including as pastor of two congregations from 1926 to 1928, when he returned to England, and to the United States the following year. He eventually pastored churches in Colorado, California, Kentucky, and South Carolina.
In 1932 he started a monthly magazine entitled Studies in the Scriptures which circulated among English-speaking Christians worldwide, though only to a relatively small circulation list of around 1,000.
In 1934 Pink returned to England, and within a few years turned his Christian service to writing books and pamphlets. Pink died in Stornoway, Scotland on July 15, 1952. The cause of death was anemia.
After Pink's death, his works were republished by a number of publishing houses, among them, Banner of Truth Trust, Baker Book House, Christian Focus Publications, Moody Press, Truth for Today, and reached a much wider audience as a result. Biographer Iain Murray observes of Pink, "the widespread circulation of his writings after his death made him one of the most influential evangelical authors in the second half of the twentieth century." His writing sparked a revival of expository preaching and focused readers' hearts on biblical living. Yet, even today, Pink is left out of most biographical dictionaries and overlooked in many religious histories.
[edit]
144 pages, Paperback
First published November 30, 1918
168 people are currently reading
613 people want to read
About the author
Arthur W. Pink
628 books304 followersArthur Walkington Pink was born in Nottingham, England on April 1, 1886 and became a Christian in his early 20s. Though born to Christian parents, prior to conversion he migrated into a Theosophical society (an occult gnostic group popular in England during that time), and quickly rose in prominence within their ranks. His conversion came from his father's patient admonitions from Scripture. It was Proverbs 14:12, 'there is a way which seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death,' which particularly struck his heart and compelled him to renounce Theosophy and follow Jesus.
Desiring to grow in knowledge of the Bible, Pink migrated to the United States to study at Moody Bible Institute. In 1916 he married Vera E. Russell, from Kentucky. However, he left after just two months for Colorado, then California, then Britain. From 1925 to 1928 he served in Australia, including as pastor of two congregations from 1926 to 1928, when he returned to England, and to the United States the following year. He eventually pastored churches Colorado, California, Kentucky and South Carolina.
In 1922 he started a monthly magazine entitled Studies in Scriptures which circulated among English-speaking Christians worldwide, though only to a relatively small circulation list of around 1,000.
In 1934 Pink returned to England, and within a few years turned his Christian service to writing books and pamphlets. Pink died in Stornoway, Scotland on July 15, 1952. The cause of death was anemia.
After Pink's death, his works were republished by the Banner of Truth Trust and reached a much wider audience as a result. Biographer Iain Murray observes of Pink, "the widespread circulation of his writings after his death made him one of the most influential evangelical authors in the second half of the twentieth century." His writing sparked a revival of expository preaching and focused readers' hearts on biblical living.
Desiring to grow in knowledge of the Bible, Pink migrated to the United States to study at Moody Bible Institute. In 1916 he married Vera E. Russell, from Kentucky. However, he left after just two months for Colorado, then California, then Britain. From 1925 to 1928 he served in Australia, including as pastor of two congregations from 1926 to 1928, when he returned to England, and to the United States the following year. He eventually pastored churches Colorado, California, Kentucky and South Carolina.
In 1922 he started a monthly magazine entitled Studies in Scriptures which circulated among English-speaking Christians worldwide, though only to a relatively small circulation list of around 1,000.
In 1934 Pink returned to England, and within a few years turned his Christian service to writing books and pamphlets. Pink died in Stornoway, Scotland on July 15, 1952. The cause of death was anemia.
After Pink's death, his works were republished by the Banner of Truth Trust and reached a much wider audience as a result. Biographer Iain Murray observes of Pink, "the widespread circulation of his writings after his death made him one of the most influential evangelical authors in the second half of the twentieth century." His writing sparked a revival of expository preaching and focused readers' hearts on biblical living.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
August 26, 2021
Outstanding.
Really, I was overwhelmed by this. Such precious words from the Lord handled reverently and expounded so beautifully. Inexpressibly rich realities here.
“How utterly unlikely this appeared, that the Holy One of God should be numbered with the unholy; that the very One whose finger had inscribed on the tables of stone the Sinaitic Law, should be assigned a place with the lawless…”
Really, I was overwhelmed by this. Such precious words from the Lord handled reverently and expounded so beautifully. Inexpressibly rich realities here.
“How utterly unlikely this appeared, that the Holy One of God should be numbered with the unholy; that the very One whose finger had inscribed on the tables of stone the Sinaitic Law, should be assigned a place with the lawless…”
Read
March 24, 2016I breathed a sigh of satisfaction when I finished the last sentence of this book. Pink is eloquent and powerful, even decades after his death.
In no overstatement, this book is truly great.
Pink mentions that it was the goal of ancient Greeks to say much in little: "to give a sea of matter in a drop of language." Nearly all of these 139 pages gave oceans of matter.
The Book is divided into seven chapters (based on each of Christ's final words on the cross) with seven points under each. Pink adds his own perceptive observances often, while supporting them with frequent Scripture.
I found myself writing "Well said," "So true," and "Interesting perspective" in the margins often. Pink's words are sometimes comforting, sometimes challenging, sometimes chilling... but always thoughtful and theologically sound.
My only criticism--and it is a minuscule one--is that once or twice (to meet his seven-point format) he stretches a single point into two. Still, Pink has a way of presenting the same material in a fresh way.
Pink's own dying words were: "The Scriptures explain themselves." Clearly, he was a man who knew and loved those very Scriptures. His words will ring true for decades yet to come.
Worth the read.
In no overstatement, this book is truly great.
Pink mentions that it was the goal of ancient Greeks to say much in little: "to give a sea of matter in a drop of language." Nearly all of these 139 pages gave oceans of matter.
The Book is divided into seven chapters (based on each of Christ's final words on the cross) with seven points under each. Pink adds his own perceptive observances often, while supporting them with frequent Scripture.
I found myself writing "Well said," "So true," and "Interesting perspective" in the margins often. Pink's words are sometimes comforting, sometimes challenging, sometimes chilling... but always thoughtful and theologically sound.
My only criticism--and it is a minuscule one--is that once or twice (to meet his seven-point format) he stretches a single point into two. Still, Pink has a way of presenting the same material in a fresh way.
Pink's own dying words were: "The Scriptures explain themselves." Clearly, he was a man who knew and loved those very Scriptures. His words will ring true for decades yet to come.
Worth the read.
April 14, 2017
When a person knows he’s about to die, it’s understandable that he would choose very carefully and deliberately who he will speak to and what he will tell them. This was never more true and important than in the case of the Lord Jesus Christ, whose very death was deliberate, intentional, and purposeful. The final words of Christ give us a little insight as to what and who was on His mind and in His heart in those last hours, if we will only pay attention. While He may have spoken other words, these seven statements are the only ones that were specifically recorded for us, so undoubtedly there is something God wants us to learn from these select words of our Lord from the cross.
In his book The Seven Sayings of the Saviour on the Cross, Arthur W. Pink shares some insights and practical lessons that we can learn from the statements Jesus made in His dying hours. These words, says Pink, “reveal the excellencies of the One who suffered there; words in which is wrapt up the Gospel of our Salvation; and words which inform us of the purpose, the meaning, the sufferings, and the sufficiency of the Death Divine.”
Before reviewing these sayings of Christ, it’s important to note that Jesus was a real man who really suffered and died a real death. There were eye witnesses and a burial. Also, as we read of the accounts of the events that led up to His execution, we can see that Jesus was not an unwilling victim of a vengeful mob or corrupt government; He was in control the entire time and knew what He was doing. He set “His face like a flint” towards the cross, for it was for this primary purpose that He was born. It’s also noteworthy that much of what occurred with regard to Jesus’ crucifixion fulfilled Old Testament prophecy, proving that it was of Him that they speak (see Psalm 22, and Isaiah 50 & 53, for example).
Pink’s book dedicates one chapter to each of the Seven Sayings of Christ as follows:
1. “Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they do.” – The Word of Forgiveness
2. (In response to the penitent thief on the cross), “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.” – The Word of Salvation
3. (To His mother), “Woman, behold your son!” (and to John, His disciple), “Behold your mother!” – The Word of Affection
4.“My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?” – The Word of Anguish
5. “I thirst.” – The Word of Suffering
6. “It is finished!” - The Word of Victory
7. “Father, into Your hands I commit My spirit.” – The Word of Contentment
Here are just some of the main points that Pink brings out about each of these.
The Word of Forgiveness: “Forgive them for they don’t know what they’re doing.” Here we see the compassion and intercession of Christ, the depravity of man, and the holiness of God. In the midst of His suffering, Jesus takes a moment to pray for His enemies, the very ones who have mocked, abused, and crucified Him. These individuals are so sinful, that they don’t even realize they need forgiveness, and have no desire or inclination to repent and ask their victim to do so. In fact, it’s interesting to note that Jesus Himself does not extend forgiveness to them, but rather He makes it clear who it is that they have actually offended -- His holy heavenly Father, before whom they would one day be held accountable for their sins. Yet, we know that the Father hears the prayers of His Son and amazingly, He surely answered by forgiving and saving some of these. In fact, did He not do the same for you, who were once His enemy and unaware of your lost condition and need of forgiveness? Where would any of us be were it not for the compassion and intercession of Jesus on our behalf?
The Word of Salvation: “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in paradise.” In His sovereign plan, God ordained that Jesus would be crucified between two criminals. There must be a purpose for this, for nothing that God does is arbitrary. Here we see the only two possible responses to the Gospel message played out: “a sinner repenting and believing, and a sinner, reviling and rejecting.” Both men are in a similar helpless state, equally deserving of punishment, having the same information and opportunity. The believing thief demonstrates both repentance and faith in his conversations with Jesus and the other thief. Having come to the end of himself and helpless to save himself, he acknowledges that he is sinful and deserving of punishment and recognizes Christ as the only one who can save him and give him life. He humbly yet boldly asks Jesus to remember Him. He bore testimony of who Jesus was: the sinless King who is able to save.
Additionally we witness Christ’s readiness, willingness, and power to save, even when He appears to be in a physically weakened and helpless state. While the crowd challenges Him to come down from the cross and ridicules Him for being unable to save Himself, He indeed does save this one who is in great need and cries out for help. Christ’s words of promise to the penitent thief indicate not just where he would go after he passed from this life, but with whom. For indeed, “Heaven without Christ would not be Heaven.”
This interaction shows how a sinner may and should come to Christ. The scene gives hope that no one is beyond saving and that it’s never too late to repent. But that being said, there are no guarantees that anyone will have one last chance to repent. Pink observes, "Many are cut off suddenly, without any opportunity to lie down and die…As said one of the Puritans, 'There is one such case recorded that none need despair, but only one, in Scripture, that none might presume.'”
The Words of Affection: “Woman, behold your son!” and “Behold your mother!” We can only try to imagine what grief the mother of Jesus felt as she stood at the foot of the cross. As a faithful keeper of God’s law and a dutiful son, Jesus honors His mother (undoubtedly a widow by this time) by showing His love and concern for her welfare as He is about to leave her. Although He was about His Father’s business, He doesn’t forsake His earthly obligations and relationships. A useful lesson is here for those who are in full-time ministry. In this chapter, Pink also briefly discusses the wrong view of Mariology in which Mary is held up as the “Queen of Heaven” rather than a fallen human in need of salvation.
The Word of Anguish: “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?” These are probably some of the most heart-wrenching words ever spoken, within or even outside of Scripture. We know that Jesus suffered greatly both physically and emotionally, but no man suffered such spiritual anguish as Jesus when His Father turned His back on Him, even if just temporarily. Up until this time, Jesus had, from eternity past, enjoyed perfect union and fellowship with the Father. All of the ridicule, torture, and abandonment He experienced from His fellow man – His enemies and even His friends – were nothing in comparison to the abandonment of His beloved Father.
Jesus’s words show just how terrible sin is and how it affects our relationship with a holy God. Physical death is a result of the curse that came with Adam’s first sin, but spiritual death is what separated man from God. It would require an eternal, holy being to die in order to pay for sins committed against an eternal, holy God. While Jesus was completely innocent of sin, He became sin and was made a curse on behalf of the people for whom He died. While bearing those sins on the cross, it meant He would be separated from God the Father. In anticipation of this, we can understand why Jesus prayed as He did in Gethsemane. Yet Jesus trusted His Father and knew that He would not abandon His soul in the grave.
Have you ever felt abandoned and forsaken by God? You too may trust in His promises, when encompassed by darkness and despair as well as when surrounded by sunlight. That Jesus was willing to endure this anguish shows the great depth of His love for those for whom He died as their substitute, for this love was His motivation (John 13:1).
The Word of Suffering: “I’m thirsty.” Jesus was always mindful of who He was and the purpose for which He came. The Old Testament scriptures speak of His birth, life, and death, and we see many occasions in which it is stated that Jesus said or did something, “that the Scriptures should be fulfilled,” this being one of those occasions. In order for His death to accomplish what it was meant to, it was just as important for Christ to be a man as it was for Him to be God. As a man, He was a fitting substitute for men. As a man, He can identify with even the most basic deprivations and suffering that we undergo. He was willing to subject Himself in obedience to the smallest detail that was part of His Father’s plan. He humbled Himself and limited Himself even when He was more than capable of taking action to bring relief or comfort to His body or soul. May we remember this example of Christ when we start to complain against God’s providence when we experience the smallest inconvenience or discomfort.
The Word of Victory: “It is finished!” If Christ’s utterance of anguish is the most heart-breaking, this word of Christ is the most heart-lifting! So what was finished, exactly? Well, to sum it up, the Work of Atonement. But let’s break it down further, for at His dying moment, Jesus accomplished quite a bit. He fulfilled every prophecy written of Him that needed to be fulfilled before His death. His physical sufferings were come to an end, along with His state of humiliation. Satan was defeated and his power was broken. The purpose for His incarnation had been achieved. All the sins of every believer were paid for. Jesus could now say to His Father, “I have glorified You on the earth. I have finished the work which You have given Me to do” (John 17:4). And the atoning work that He finished on the cross, He finished perfectly, once for all time. There is nothing else that anyone could or need do to add to the finished work of Christ.
The Word of Contentment: “Father, into Your hands I commit My spirit.” Having finished the work He came to do, Jesus is reunited once again with His Father and may rest from His work. He had said, “I have the power to lay down my life, and I have the power to take it up again” (John 10:17-18). Having willingly delivered Himself into the hands of wicked men previously, He now willingly delivers Himself into the hands of His loving Father. Unlike the two criminals who would continue to fight for breath on either side of Him, Jesus is content and ready to yield up His life. He is confident that the sacrifice He offered has been accepted and that the Father is pleased with Him. And He is assured that in His Father’s hand His soul will be eternally safe. Believer, you too may be assured that your soul is and ever will be secure in the hands of your Heavenly Father!
The Seven Sayings of the Saviour on the Cross is certainly appropriate reading for Easter season, but makes for good devotional reading as it causes the reader to contemplate all that the Lord Jesus suffered and accomplished for His people.
In his book The Seven Sayings of the Saviour on the Cross, Arthur W. Pink shares some insights and practical lessons that we can learn from the statements Jesus made in His dying hours. These words, says Pink, “reveal the excellencies of the One who suffered there; words in which is wrapt up the Gospel of our Salvation; and words which inform us of the purpose, the meaning, the sufferings, and the sufficiency of the Death Divine.”
Before reviewing these sayings of Christ, it’s important to note that Jesus was a real man who really suffered and died a real death. There were eye witnesses and a burial. Also, as we read of the accounts of the events that led up to His execution, we can see that Jesus was not an unwilling victim of a vengeful mob or corrupt government; He was in control the entire time and knew what He was doing. He set “His face like a flint” towards the cross, for it was for this primary purpose that He was born. It’s also noteworthy that much of what occurred with regard to Jesus’ crucifixion fulfilled Old Testament prophecy, proving that it was of Him that they speak (see Psalm 22, and Isaiah 50 & 53, for example).
Pink’s book dedicates one chapter to each of the Seven Sayings of Christ as follows:
1. “Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they do.” – The Word of Forgiveness
2. (In response to the penitent thief on the cross), “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.” – The Word of Salvation
3. (To His mother), “Woman, behold your son!” (and to John, His disciple), “Behold your mother!” – The Word of Affection
4.“My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?” – The Word of Anguish
5. “I thirst.” – The Word of Suffering
6. “It is finished!” - The Word of Victory
7. “Father, into Your hands I commit My spirit.” – The Word of Contentment
Here are just some of the main points that Pink brings out about each of these.
The Word of Forgiveness: “Forgive them for they don’t know what they’re doing.” Here we see the compassion and intercession of Christ, the depravity of man, and the holiness of God. In the midst of His suffering, Jesus takes a moment to pray for His enemies, the very ones who have mocked, abused, and crucified Him. These individuals are so sinful, that they don’t even realize they need forgiveness, and have no desire or inclination to repent and ask their victim to do so. In fact, it’s interesting to note that Jesus Himself does not extend forgiveness to them, but rather He makes it clear who it is that they have actually offended -- His holy heavenly Father, before whom they would one day be held accountable for their sins. Yet, we know that the Father hears the prayers of His Son and amazingly, He surely answered by forgiving and saving some of these. In fact, did He not do the same for you, who were once His enemy and unaware of your lost condition and need of forgiveness? Where would any of us be were it not for the compassion and intercession of Jesus on our behalf?
The Word of Salvation: “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in paradise.” In His sovereign plan, God ordained that Jesus would be crucified between two criminals. There must be a purpose for this, for nothing that God does is arbitrary. Here we see the only two possible responses to the Gospel message played out: “a sinner repenting and believing, and a sinner, reviling and rejecting.” Both men are in a similar helpless state, equally deserving of punishment, having the same information and opportunity. The believing thief demonstrates both repentance and faith in his conversations with Jesus and the other thief. Having come to the end of himself and helpless to save himself, he acknowledges that he is sinful and deserving of punishment and recognizes Christ as the only one who can save him and give him life. He humbly yet boldly asks Jesus to remember Him. He bore testimony of who Jesus was: the sinless King who is able to save.
Additionally we witness Christ’s readiness, willingness, and power to save, even when He appears to be in a physically weakened and helpless state. While the crowd challenges Him to come down from the cross and ridicules Him for being unable to save Himself, He indeed does save this one who is in great need and cries out for help. Christ’s words of promise to the penitent thief indicate not just where he would go after he passed from this life, but with whom. For indeed, “Heaven without Christ would not be Heaven.”
This interaction shows how a sinner may and should come to Christ. The scene gives hope that no one is beyond saving and that it’s never too late to repent. But that being said, there are no guarantees that anyone will have one last chance to repent. Pink observes, "Many are cut off suddenly, without any opportunity to lie down and die…As said one of the Puritans, 'There is one such case recorded that none need despair, but only one, in Scripture, that none might presume.'”
The Words of Affection: “Woman, behold your son!” and “Behold your mother!” We can only try to imagine what grief the mother of Jesus felt as she stood at the foot of the cross. As a faithful keeper of God’s law and a dutiful son, Jesus honors His mother (undoubtedly a widow by this time) by showing His love and concern for her welfare as He is about to leave her. Although He was about His Father’s business, He doesn’t forsake His earthly obligations and relationships. A useful lesson is here for those who are in full-time ministry. In this chapter, Pink also briefly discusses the wrong view of Mariology in which Mary is held up as the “Queen of Heaven” rather than a fallen human in need of salvation.
The Word of Anguish: “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?” These are probably some of the most heart-wrenching words ever spoken, within or even outside of Scripture. We know that Jesus suffered greatly both physically and emotionally, but no man suffered such spiritual anguish as Jesus when His Father turned His back on Him, even if just temporarily. Up until this time, Jesus had, from eternity past, enjoyed perfect union and fellowship with the Father. All of the ridicule, torture, and abandonment He experienced from His fellow man – His enemies and even His friends – were nothing in comparison to the abandonment of His beloved Father.
Jesus’s words show just how terrible sin is and how it affects our relationship with a holy God. Physical death is a result of the curse that came with Adam’s first sin, but spiritual death is what separated man from God. It would require an eternal, holy being to die in order to pay for sins committed against an eternal, holy God. While Jesus was completely innocent of sin, He became sin and was made a curse on behalf of the people for whom He died. While bearing those sins on the cross, it meant He would be separated from God the Father. In anticipation of this, we can understand why Jesus prayed as He did in Gethsemane. Yet Jesus trusted His Father and knew that He would not abandon His soul in the grave.
Have you ever felt abandoned and forsaken by God? You too may trust in His promises, when encompassed by darkness and despair as well as when surrounded by sunlight. That Jesus was willing to endure this anguish shows the great depth of His love for those for whom He died as their substitute, for this love was His motivation (John 13:1).
The Word of Suffering: “I’m thirsty.” Jesus was always mindful of who He was and the purpose for which He came. The Old Testament scriptures speak of His birth, life, and death, and we see many occasions in which it is stated that Jesus said or did something, “that the Scriptures should be fulfilled,” this being one of those occasions. In order for His death to accomplish what it was meant to, it was just as important for Christ to be a man as it was for Him to be God. As a man, He was a fitting substitute for men. As a man, He can identify with even the most basic deprivations and suffering that we undergo. He was willing to subject Himself in obedience to the smallest detail that was part of His Father’s plan. He humbled Himself and limited Himself even when He was more than capable of taking action to bring relief or comfort to His body or soul. May we remember this example of Christ when we start to complain against God’s providence when we experience the smallest inconvenience or discomfort.
The Word of Victory: “It is finished!” If Christ’s utterance of anguish is the most heart-breaking, this word of Christ is the most heart-lifting! So what was finished, exactly? Well, to sum it up, the Work of Atonement. But let’s break it down further, for at His dying moment, Jesus accomplished quite a bit. He fulfilled every prophecy written of Him that needed to be fulfilled before His death. His physical sufferings were come to an end, along with His state of humiliation. Satan was defeated and his power was broken. The purpose for His incarnation had been achieved. All the sins of every believer were paid for. Jesus could now say to His Father, “I have glorified You on the earth. I have finished the work which You have given Me to do” (John 17:4). And the atoning work that He finished on the cross, He finished perfectly, once for all time. There is nothing else that anyone could or need do to add to the finished work of Christ.
The Word of Contentment: “Father, into Your hands I commit My spirit.” Having finished the work He came to do, Jesus is reunited once again with His Father and may rest from His work. He had said, “I have the power to lay down my life, and I have the power to take it up again” (John 10:17-18). Having willingly delivered Himself into the hands of wicked men previously, He now willingly delivers Himself into the hands of His loving Father. Unlike the two criminals who would continue to fight for breath on either side of Him, Jesus is content and ready to yield up His life. He is confident that the sacrifice He offered has been accepted and that the Father is pleased with Him. And He is assured that in His Father’s hand His soul will be eternally safe. Believer, you too may be assured that your soul is and ever will be secure in the hands of your Heavenly Father!
The Seven Sayings of the Saviour on the Cross is certainly appropriate reading for Easter season, but makes for good devotional reading as it causes the reader to contemplate all that the Lord Jesus suffered and accomplished for His people.
February 20, 2022
A wonderful little book to think on Christ's work on the cross. It is so thorough and detailed and it caused me to think on the cross in ways I hadn't considered before. There are some places where my thoughts and beliefs do not align with Dr Pink, but mostly this book grew my love for Christ.
April 16, 2022
Deserves much meditation.
July 5, 2011
In the month of August, I completed a short (137 page) work of Arthur W. Pink entitled, "The Seven Sayings of the Saviour on the Cross". Obsessive/Compulsive that I am, Pink is probably my favorite author as he writes in impeccable outline form, point by point, and I appreciate the orderliness of his writing. Beyond that, though, he has deep insight into the Word, and I have gleaned much from him. I appreciate that he writes with Scripture interpreting Itself. The fact that he had an experience, as I have had, coming to understand THE Truth later in his Christian life is an encouragement to me. I am learning there is a lifetime of Christian growth to be had and it is quite exciting. Jesus truly did come to give us Zoe, then (future) and now!
In this particular book, the most amazing thing to me is the depth of meaning one can derive from the seven short utterances given by Jesus from the cross. I never could have imagined that so little, yet so much was "said" there. Indeed, our Lord was never One to waste words...so why should I be surprised?
Pink arranges Jesus' expressions into seven "Words";
1) the Word of Forgiveness - "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do."
2) the Word of Salvation - "Today shalt thou be with me in paradise."
3) the Word of Affection - "Behold thy mother!"
4) the Word of Anguish - "My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?"
5) the Word of Suffering - "I thirst."
6) the Word of Victory - "It is finished."
7) the Word of Contentment - "Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit", and having said thus, he gave up the ghost.
In a day and age when salvation has been reduced to "saying a prayer" and simplified to the point that those "receiving" Christ have no understanding of WHO He is or what the Atonement accomplished for them, a commentary such as this is invaluable (though it is not necessarily a work on the Atonement). The command Jesus Christ gave us is to "make disciples" (students) not to "make converts". How can we share the Gospel, if we don't know the One who IS the gospel by who He says He is and by what He tells us He has done for His people?
Pink has given us a glimpse into the personality, character and attributes of our Saviour. What better way to KNOW Him? I highly recommend this book.
In this particular book, the most amazing thing to me is the depth of meaning one can derive from the seven short utterances given by Jesus from the cross. I never could have imagined that so little, yet so much was "said" there. Indeed, our Lord was never One to waste words...so why should I be surprised?
Pink arranges Jesus' expressions into seven "Words";
1) the Word of Forgiveness - "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do."
2) the Word of Salvation - "Today shalt thou be with me in paradise."
3) the Word of Affection - "Behold thy mother!"
4) the Word of Anguish - "My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?"
5) the Word of Suffering - "I thirst."
6) the Word of Victory - "It is finished."
7) the Word of Contentment - "Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit", and having said thus, he gave up the ghost.
In a day and age when salvation has been reduced to "saying a prayer" and simplified to the point that those "receiving" Christ have no understanding of WHO He is or what the Atonement accomplished for them, a commentary such as this is invaluable (though it is not necessarily a work on the Atonement). The command Jesus Christ gave us is to "make disciples" (students) not to "make converts". How can we share the Gospel, if we don't know the One who IS the gospel by who He says He is and by what He tells us He has done for His people?
Pink has given us a glimpse into the personality, character and attributes of our Saviour. What better way to KNOW Him? I highly recommend this book.
March 19, 2012
This book truly helps you to see a portrait of how powerful the crucifixion of Jesus really is. Sometimes in this walk of faith we can become laxed, but the sayings of Christ shows His passion for the people and His dedication to His Fathers will. This is must have on you bookshelf
November 13, 2020
Probably 3.5 just because there was some stuff in there I thought he speculated too much on, and I wasn’t totally sure was correct. But overall there was a lot of encouraging stuff in here. It’s always good to learn more about Jesus.
September 15, 2025
A beautifully in-depth look into the words of our Savior on the cross and what they mean for us as believers. Would recommend this to any seasoned Christian looking to focus more on Christ and the cross.
May 26, 2014
was a good read and offered some new thoughts.
July 27, 2021
This is one of the best books I’ve read to date. Before reading it, I read several reviews. I saw a pattern that people were mentioning how rich every page is, how there is much said in little space. All of those claims are true.
I dare a reader to find one page that doesn’t have gold on in this book. If only every book was like this. Only 134 pages, and it had more value of some 400 page books.
I highly recommend this book. Before I even finished this, I was thinking about how I plan to read several times in my life, God willing.
If you can get this book, get it and be enriched to the glory of God.
I dare a reader to find one page that doesn’t have gold on in this book. If only every book was like this. Only 134 pages, and it had more value of some 400 page books.
I highly recommend this book. Before I even finished this, I was thinking about how I plan to read several times in my life, God willing.
If you can get this book, get it and be enriched to the glory of God.
March 11, 2024
Got this to help prepare my heart for Easter and recognize what was accomplished on Good Friday.
This is a great theology of Jesus’ words on the cross; unpacking what is being communicated. I also am thinking this is a great work of evangelism as it unpacks the Gospel. This was very accessible, so if you’re looking for some Easter literature - would recommend.
Super great outline - 7 Sayings of Jesus on the Cross each with 7 main points of what it means. I will be stealing Pink’s outline for decades lol.
This is a great theology of Jesus’ words on the cross; unpacking what is being communicated. I also am thinking this is a great work of evangelism as it unpacks the Gospel. This was very accessible, so if you’re looking for some Easter literature - would recommend.
Super great outline - 7 Sayings of Jesus on the Cross each with 7 main points of what it means. I will be stealing Pink’s outline for decades lol.
February 28, 2018
An excellent, rich treatment.
March 30, 2024
This book is beautiful! Everyone should read it. The way he explains Christs final words on the cross is just beautiful and evokes such emotion in you. You won’t regret it
May 17, 2024
A lot of wisdom and insight found in this book. Not a fan of Arthur Pink, but this was incredible.
June 9, 2025
Entertaining: 4/10
Transformational: 6/10
There were some beautiful gems in this one and a few expository details I really appreciated.
Transformational: 6/10
There were some beautiful gems in this one and a few expository details I really appreciated.
October 4, 2015
Arthur Pink has been my favorite Biblical teacher for many years. The first book I read of his was "Gleanings in Exodus". He is an expository preacher of God's Word. An expository teacher takes each sentence, phrase, and word and breaks it down to give you the full meaning of the text.
In this book, "The Seven Sayings of the Savior on the Cross", he does not disappoint. The diligent Bible student will learn more of the truth about Christ's death on the cross and the reason for His utterances. Christ spoke clearly and precisely during His ordeal. He did not, as Hollywood has depicted so many times, slowly and silently gasp out His last words. A careful study of the scriptures teaches us the He shouted out triumphantly, "It is finished", as Mr. Pink so rightly points out.
Mr. Pink stands tall, yet humbly, among the teachers of his time, Dwight L. Moody, Billy Sunday, C. L. Spurgeon, etc. It is unfortunate for us that there are far fewer expository teachers in our day and age. While thematic preaching is necessary when discussing current events in light of God's Word, expository more fully feeds the soul. We need more teachers like him and Billy Graham.
I was extremely excited when Barnes and Noble offered several of his books for the Nook at no cost. I got every one they offered, about 13 or 14, and have begun purchasing other offerings. These are invaluable commentaries and should be part of every Chistian's library.
In this book, "The Seven Sayings of the Savior on the Cross", he does not disappoint. The diligent Bible student will learn more of the truth about Christ's death on the cross and the reason for His utterances. Christ spoke clearly and precisely during His ordeal. He did not, as Hollywood has depicted so many times, slowly and silently gasp out His last words. A careful study of the scriptures teaches us the He shouted out triumphantly, "It is finished", as Mr. Pink so rightly points out.
Mr. Pink stands tall, yet humbly, among the teachers of his time, Dwight L. Moody, Billy Sunday, C. L. Spurgeon, etc. It is unfortunate for us that there are far fewer expository teachers in our day and age. While thematic preaching is necessary when discussing current events in light of God's Word, expository more fully feeds the soul. We need more teachers like him and Billy Graham.
I was extremely excited when Barnes and Noble offered several of his books for the Nook at no cost. I got every one they offered, about 13 or 14, and have begun purchasing other offerings. These are invaluable commentaries and should be part of every Chistian's library.
March 6, 2021
Excelente leitura. A. W. Pink toca o leitor de forma profunda ao apresentar detalhes preciosos sobre as palavras do Senhor Jesus na cruz e por meio deles o leitor tem seu coração aquecido pelo Salvador. Recomendo demais a leitura.
April 10, 2012
Powerful book! I loved reading this book, especially during the time of Lent.
July 20, 2013
Fabulous
April 17, 2019
Classic, we reread this aloud each year before Easter. Makes us appreciate the person and work of Christ more and more.
May 31, 2025
Christians have a deep and abiding fascination with the cross. Though 2000 years have passed since Christ hung on that cross, Christians continue to grapple with its deepest meanings and continue to seek to apply its lessons to their lives. Of the countless thousands of books written on the subject, A.W. Pink's The Seven Sayings of the Saviour on the Cross stands as one of the few true classics.
In this book Pink looks at each of the seven words Jesus spoke while hanging in agony. In his introduction to the book Pink says, "The death of Christ...was unique, miraculous, supernatural. In the chapters which follow we shall hearken to the words which fell from his lips while he hung upon the cross - words which make known to us some of the attendant circumstances of the great tragedy; words which reveal the excellencies of the one who suffered there; words in which is wrapped up the gospel of our salvation; and words which inform us of the purpose, the meaning, the sufferings, and the sufficiency of the death divine." He dedicates a chapter to each of the words of forgiveness, salvation, affection, anguish, suffering, victory and contentment. In every case he spends some time discussing the meaning of the word and usually equal time applying these words to the faith of the individual Christian. Far from "mere" theology, this book is intensely practical and immediately applicable.
The Seven Sayings of the Saviour on the Cross deserves the accolades given to it. It bears repeated readings and is ideal for group study (and, indeed, I led a group of 7 people reading it in tandem). It is worthy of a spot in the collection of every Christian.
In this book Pink looks at each of the seven words Jesus spoke while hanging in agony. In his introduction to the book Pink says, "The death of Christ...was unique, miraculous, supernatural. In the chapters which follow we shall hearken to the words which fell from his lips while he hung upon the cross - words which make known to us some of the attendant circumstances of the great tragedy; words which reveal the excellencies of the one who suffered there; words in which is wrapped up the gospel of our salvation; and words which inform us of the purpose, the meaning, the sufferings, and the sufficiency of the death divine." He dedicates a chapter to each of the words of forgiveness, salvation, affection, anguish, suffering, victory and contentment. In every case he spends some time discussing the meaning of the word and usually equal time applying these words to the faith of the individual Christian. Far from "mere" theology, this book is intensely practical and immediately applicable.
The Seven Sayings of the Saviour on the Cross deserves the accolades given to it. It bears repeated readings and is ideal for group study (and, indeed, I led a group of 7 people reading it in tandem). It is worthy of a spot in the collection of every Christian.
November 13, 2020
This is the first book by Arthur Pink that I've read. Though theological, it also leans a little devotional. And it has the well-polished feel of something that was crafted skillfully and edited carefully. I found it helped me focus on Jesus and His heart as He hung on the cross. I saw what was on His mind at the time from what He chose to say.
I felt there was very little to bicker over in the book theologically except one small point he seems to go out of his way to make in the introduction. He draws from Jesus' words being spoken in a loud voice and from the fact that He bowed His head as He commended His spirit to the Father (rather than already having it drooping) that "the Saviour was not exhausted (author's emphasis) by what He had passed through." He is wanting to portray Jesus as in full control of Himself, but he perhaps unwillingly presents a super-Stoic Jesus who is so sovereign that nothing can touch Him. Mighty, even when on the cross. He was not put to death but yielded Himself to death. His yielding Himself is obvious from his passivity from His arrest onward, but the author seems to be saying that the physical assault would not have killed our Lord in a biological sense, that it was almost a sacrificial suicide in the moment His spirit departed from Him.
But don't let that one detail spoil the rest of the book for you. In the chapters that follow there seems to be a more balanced picture of a Christ who actually suffered and sensed both the physical and spiritual torment He bore for us on the cross.
I felt there was very little to bicker over in the book theologically except one small point he seems to go out of his way to make in the introduction. He draws from Jesus' words being spoken in a loud voice and from the fact that He bowed His head as He commended His spirit to the Father (rather than already having it drooping) that "the Saviour was not exhausted (author's emphasis) by what He had passed through." He is wanting to portray Jesus as in full control of Himself, but he perhaps unwillingly presents a super-Stoic Jesus who is so sovereign that nothing can touch Him. Mighty, even when on the cross. He was not put to death but yielded Himself to death. His yielding Himself is obvious from his passivity from His arrest onward, but the author seems to be saying that the physical assault would not have killed our Lord in a biological sense, that it was almost a sacrificial suicide in the moment His spirit departed from Him.
But don't let that one detail spoil the rest of the book for you. In the chapters that follow there seems to be a more balanced picture of a Christ who actually suffered and sensed both the physical and spiritual torment He bore for us on the cross.
August 19, 2021
What a gem! AW Pink writes a chapter for each of Jesus' seven utterances on the cross and the weight of significance they each carry. He unpacks truths that are precious and mines deep into scripture to support his conclusions. The result is a feast of glory on Christ as the joy and object of our desires and affections, displayed in His most glorious, most powerful and humbling earthly moments on the cross.
One specific truth I had never thought of was that each of the seven sayings of Christ was a direct fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecies. It was incredible to see how His chief mission was to carry out this plan of redemption and He never waivers from that task.
"'It is finished.' Reader, do you believe it? Or are you trying to add something of our own to the finished work of Christ to secure God's favor? All you have to do is to accept the pardon He purchased. God 'is satisfied' with the work of Christ, why are not you? Sinner, the moment you believe God's testimony concerning His beloved Son, that moment every sin you have committed is blotted out, and you stand accepted in Christ!"
One specific truth I had never thought of was that each of the seven sayings of Christ was a direct fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecies. It was incredible to see how His chief mission was to carry out this plan of redemption and He never waivers from that task.
"'It is finished.' Reader, do you believe it? Or are you trying to add something of our own to the finished work of Christ to secure God's favor? All you have to do is to accept the pardon He purchased. God 'is satisfied' with the work of Christ, why are not you? Sinner, the moment you believe God's testimony concerning His beloved Son, that moment every sin you have committed is blotted out, and you stand accepted in Christ!"
April 16, 2022
A faithful and helpful book to aid meditation on the death of Christ for sinners in the run up to Easter.
I haven't read much Pink but found this work to be well structured, thoughtful and faithful to the text.
Pink is good at bringing out the Old Testament background to the events and the words occurring on the cross. He also links to relevant passages in the New Testament. Most of the chapters have 'seven' points and provide a resource for preachers. Pink is never shy pointing out the relevance of Christ's words to sinners since they demonstrate the need we all have for a Saviour. He also draws out comfort for believers.
Overall a good read.
I haven't read much Pink but found this work to be well structured, thoughtful and faithful to the text.
Pink is good at bringing out the Old Testament background to the events and the words occurring on the cross. He also links to relevant passages in the New Testament. Most of the chapters have 'seven' points and provide a resource for preachers. Pink is never shy pointing out the relevance of Christ's words to sinners since they demonstrate the need we all have for a Saviour. He also draws out comfort for believers.
Overall a good read.
April 28, 2019
Pink’s Colorful Exegesis
A.W. Pink’s examination of Christ’s cries from the cross atop Calvary is both inspirational and instructional. Each chapter shares insights on a variety of important, biblical doctrines in a way that’s accessible for the average Christian. Pink’s exegesis of Bible texts is done in a colorful fashion so the reader is encouraged to not “just listen to God’s word,” but “do what it says” (James 1:22).
A.W. Pink’s examination of Christ’s cries from the cross atop Calvary is both inspirational and instructional. Each chapter shares insights on a variety of important, biblical doctrines in a way that’s accessible for the average Christian. Pink’s exegesis of Bible texts is done in a colorful fashion so the reader is encouraged to not “just listen to God’s word,” but “do what it says” (James 1:22).
October 31, 2024
Deep, Penetrating, Insightful Encouragement
Reader, this book is a marvelous examination of the Lord's words as He hung on the cross for all our sins. Reading it whether you are facing trials, tribulations, depression, exhaustion, or the pain of loneliness will provide you with the proper perspective that will buoy, uplift, strengthen, and encourage your heart. The Lord loves you!
Reader, this book is a marvelous examination of the Lord's words as He hung on the cross for all our sins. Reading it whether you are facing trials, tribulations, depression, exhaustion, or the pain of loneliness will provide you with the proper perspective that will buoy, uplift, strengthen, and encourage your heart. The Lord loves you!
May 21, 2025
Oh dear! What a precious book. Somehow, reading it seemed to make me think that I was watching a video of all Pink was saying. I can't explain it any other way. Nothing spooky, just his ability to describe the Scriptures in such a vivid way. Truly, this book is a gem. I'm not sure why I waited so long to read it!
May 1, 2018
Livro maravilhoso. Pink pretende extrair do texto bíblico toda verdade que conseguir. Profundo, claro e confrontador. Há anos leio os livros, pregações e textos dele e não penso em parar. Um conselho: leiam Pink e tudo o que ele escreveu!
April 7, 2018
What an eloquent exposition of our Savior's last utterances while on the cross.
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