Did Jesus Lose Faith When He Cried Out, “Why Have You Forsaken Me?” in Matthew 27:46?

Brief Overview

• Jesus’ cry of “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” in Matthew 27:46 reflects a moment of intense human suffering on the cross.
• This statement is a direct quotation from Psalm 22:1, indicating Jesus’ engagement with the Hebrew Scriptures.
• The cry does not signify a loss of faith but rather expresses the depth of Jesus’ experience of human abandonment and pain.
• Catholic theology interprets this moment as Jesus taking on the sins of humanity, feeling the weight of separation from God.
• The broader context of Psalm 22 reveals a movement from despair to trust, which aligns with Jesus’ ultimate fidelity to God’s will.
• This article will explore the theological, scriptural, and historical dimensions of this cry to clarify its meaning.

Detailed Response

The Context of Jesus’ Cry

In Matthew 27:46, Jesus utters the words, “Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?” which translate to “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” This moment occurs during the crucifixion, a time of immense physical and spiritual suffering. The cry is recorded in both Matthew and Mark (Mark 15:34), underscoring its significance in the Passion narrative. Jesus speaks in Aramaic, the language of his everyday life, which adds an intimate and human dimension to his words. The quotation directly references Psalm 22:1, a lament psalm attributed to David. This connection to the Hebrew Scriptures suggests that Jesus is not expressing a spontaneous outburst but intentionally invoking a well-known prayer. The context of the crucifixion includes mockery from onlookers, physical agony, and the weight of humanity’s sins, all of which frame this cry. Catholic teaching holds that Jesus, as both fully human and fully divine, experienced the depths of human suffering (CCC 603). This moment does not indicate a break in his divine nature but rather highlights his full participation in human anguish. Understanding this context is essential to addressing whether Jesus lost faith.

The Role of Psalm 22 in Jesus’ Words

Psalm 22 begins with a cry of abandonment but transitions into an expression of trust and deliverance. By quoting its opening line, Jesus likely intends to evoke the entire psalm, which his audience would have known. The psalm describes suffering, including physical pain and public humiliation, that mirrors Jesus’ experience on the cross. For example, Psalm 22:7-8 speaks of being mocked and scorned, which parallels the taunts Jesus endured (Matthew 27:39-43). The psalm later affirms God’s faithfulness, as seen in Psalm 22:24, which declares that God has not hidden from the afflicted. Jesus’ use of this psalm suggests he is identifying with the righteous sufferer who trusts God despite intense trials. In Catholic exegesis, this connection underscores Jesus’ role as the fulfillment of the Scriptures (CCC 112). His cry, therefore, is not a rejection of God but an expression of solidarity with human suffering while pointing to divine redemption. The psalm’s hopeful conclusion reinforces that Jesus’ faith remains intact. This scriptural grounding is key to understanding his words.

The Human Experience of Jesus

Catholic theology emphasizes the hypostatic union, the doctrine that Jesus is both fully human and fully divine (CCC 464). As a human, Jesus experienced emotions such as sorrow, fear, and pain, as seen in the Garden of Gethsemane (Matthew 26:38). His cry on the cross reflects the depth of his human suffering, particularly the sense of abandonment. This does not imply a loss of faith but rather a genuine experience of human desolation. Jesus, in his human nature, felt the weight of separation from God caused by sin, which he bore for humanity’s redemption (CCC 603). The Catechism explains that Jesus’ suffering was unique because he took on the sins of all (CCC 612). His cry expresses the anguish of this burden, not a lapse in trust. The intensity of this moment highlights his solidarity with those who feel forsaken. By enduring this, Jesus shows that God enters into human suffering. Thus, his words reflect human struggle, not a failure of faith.

Theological Significance of the Cry

The cry of dereliction, as it is often called, has profound theological implications in Catholic thought. It reveals Jesus as the Suffering Servant who takes on the sins of the world, as prophesied in Isaiah 53:4-6 (CCC 615). By experiencing the consequences of sin, including the sense of separation from God, Jesus fulfills his role as the mediator of salvation. This moment does not indicate a rupture in his relationship with the Father but rather the culmination of his redemptive mission. Catholic theologians, such as St. Thomas Aquinas, argue that Jesus’ divine will remained united to the Father, even as his human nature endured suffering. The cry expresses the human experience of sin’s alienation while affirming Jesus’ obedience to God’s plan (CCC 606). This act of obedience is evident in Jesus’ final words, “Father, into your hands I commend my spirit” (Luke 23:46). The cry, therefore, is a bridge between human despair and divine redemption. It underscores Jesus’ unwavering commitment to the Father’s will. This theological lens clarifies that faith was not lost.

The Misunderstanding of Bystanders

In Matthew 27:47-49, some bystanders misinterpret Jesus’ cry, thinking he is calling for Elijah. This misunderstanding highlights the cultural and linguistic context of the time. The Aramaic phrase “Eli, Eli” sounds similar to the name Elijah, leading to confusion among the crowd. Some Jews expected Elijah to return before the Messiah (Malachi 4:5), which may explain their assumption. This detail emphasizes the human chaos surrounding the crucifixion, where Jesus’ words were not fully grasped. The bystanders’ response also reflects the broader theme of Jesus being misunderstood during his Passion. Catholic teaching notes that Jesus’ suffering was often met with incomprehension, yet it fulfilled God’s plan (CCC 572). The misinterpretation does not diminish the significance of Jesus’ cry but rather highlights the isolation he endured. Even in this moment, Jesus remains focused on his mission. The misunderstanding serves as a reminder of the depth of his sacrifice.

Jesus’ Faith and Obedience

Far from losing faith, Jesus’ cry demonstrates his complete trust in the Father. His quotation of Psalm 22 suggests he is praying a familiar text that expresses both suffering and hope. Throughout his ministry, Jesus consistently trusted the Father’s will, as seen in his prayer in Gethsemane, “Not my will, but yours be done” (Luke 22:42). This fidelity continues on the cross, where his cry reflects human anguish but not despair. Catholic theology teaches that Jesus’ obedience was perfect, even unto death (CCC 607). His cry is an act of prayer, not a rejection of God. The subsequent events, such as the tearing of the temple veil (Matthew 27:51), affirm that Jesus’ death was part of God’s salvific plan. His faith is further evidenced by his final words in Luke 23:46, entrusting himself to the Father. Thus, Jesus’ cry is an expression of trust within suffering. It shows his unwavering commitment to God’s purpose.

The Paschal Mystery and Redemption

The cry of Jesus is central to the Paschal Mystery, which encompasses his passion, death, resurrection, and ascension (CCC 571). Catholic theology teaches that Jesus’ suffering was redemptive, reconciling humanity to God (CCC 614). By experiencing the sense of abandonment, Jesus fully enters into the human condition, including the effects of sin. This act of solidarity allows him to bridge the gap between God and humanity. The cry does not indicate a loss of divine favor but rather the depth of Jesus’ sacrifice. The Catechism explains that Jesus’ death was a “sacrifice of love” that conquered sin and death (CCC 616). His cry, therefore, is a pivotal moment in the redemption narrative. It shows that God does not remain distant from human suffering but enters into it. Jesus’ faith remains steadfast, as his death leads to resurrection. This mystery affirms that his cry was part of God’s plan.

Historical Perspectives on the Cry

Early Church Fathers, such as St. Augustine and St. Jerome, interpreted Jesus’ cry as an expression of his human nature. They emphasized that Jesus did not lose faith but was fulfilling the Scriptures, particularly Psalm 22. Augustine noted that Jesus’ cry was a teaching moment, showing believers how to pray in times of distress. This perspective aligns with Catholic tradition, which views Jesus as the model for Christian suffering (CCC 618). Patristic writings often connect the cry to Jesus’ role as the Suffering Servant, bearing the sins of many. The historical context of crucifixion, a brutal Roman punishment, also underscores the intensity of Jesus’ suffering. The cry reflects the real human experience of pain and abandonment. Yet, early theologians consistently affirmed Jesus’ divine unity with the Father. Their interpretations reinforce that faith was not lost but expressed in a profound way. This historical view supports the Catholic understanding of the cry.

The Cry in Catholic Spirituality

In Catholic spirituality, Jesus’ cry resonates with those who experience feelings of abandonment. It serves as a reminder that Christ has shared in the deepest human struggles. The faithful are encouraged to unite their suffering with Jesus’ on the cross (CCC 618). This cry invites believers to trust God even in moments of desolation. Saints like St. John of the Cross, who wrote about the “dark night of the soul,” saw Jesus’ cry as a model for enduring spiritual trials. The cry also inspires prayers of lament, which are honest expressions of pain before God. Catholic devotion, such as the Stations of the Cross, often reflects on this moment to highlight Jesus’ solidarity with humanity. The cry is not a sign of weakness but of strength in faith. It teaches that God is present even in the darkest moments. Thus, it holds a significant place in Catholic spiritual practice.

Addressing the Question of Faith

To directly address whether Jesus lost faith, Catholic theology firmly answers no. Jesus’ cry is an expression of human suffering, not a denial of God’s presence. His quotation of Psalm 22 indicates a deliberate act of prayer rooted in Scripture. The broader context of his life and ministry shows unwavering trust in the Father. Even in his agony, Jesus addresses God as “My God,” indicating a personal relationship (CCC 603). The cry reflects the human experience of feeling forsaken, not a theological rejection of God. Jesus’ subsequent words in Luke 23:46 confirm his trust in the Father. The redemption achieved through his death further proves his fidelity to God’s plan. Catholic teaching holds that Jesus’ faith was perfect, even in suffering (CCC 607). Therefore, the cry does not signify a loss of faith but its endurance.

The Broader Scriptural Context

Beyond Psalm 22, other Scriptures provide insight into Jesus’ cry. In Hebrews 5:7-8, Jesus is described as offering prayers with “loud cries and tears” and learning obedience through suffering. This passage affirms that Jesus’ cry was part of his obedient submission to God. Similarly, Isaiah 53 portrays the Suffering Servant enduring pain for others’ sins, which Jesus fulfills. The Gospel accounts also show Jesus’ trust, as seen in John 19:30, where he declares, “It is finished,” signaling the completion of his mission. These texts collectively demonstrate that Jesus’ cry was not a moment of doubt but of fulfillment. The harmony of Scripture supports the Catholic view that Jesus remained faithful. His cry is consistent with the prophetic tradition of lament and trust. It integrates with the broader narrative of salvation. This context reinforces the conclusion that faith was not lost.

The Cry and the Trinity

The cry also raises questions about Jesus’ relationship with the Father within the Trinity. Catholic theology teaches that the Trinity is an eternal communion of love (CCC 234). Jesus’ divine nature remained united to the Father, even during the crucifixion. His human nature, however, experienced the full weight of suffering, including the sense of abandonment. This does not imply a division in the Trinity but rather a mystery of Jesus’ dual nature (CCC 468). The cry reflects the human experience of separation caused by sin, which Jesus took upon himself. The Catechism explains that Jesus’ suffering was part of the divine plan for redemption (CCC 599). His cry, therefore, is not a sign of disunity but of his role as mediator. The Trinity remains intact, with Jesus’ cry expressing human anguish within divine unity. This theological framework clarifies that faith was not lost.

The Cry in the Context of Salvation History

In salvation history, Jesus’ cry is a pivotal moment. It marks the climax of God’s plan to redeem humanity through the cross (CCC 571). The sense of abandonment reflects the consequence of sin, which Jesus bore to restore humanity’s relationship with God. This act fulfills the promises of the Old Testament, such as the Suffering Servant in Isaiah 53. The cry also connects to the covenant, where God remains faithful despite human sinfulness. Jesus’ suffering is the ultimate expression of God’s love, as described in John 3:16. Catholic theology views this moment as the turning point where death is overcome by life (CCC 654). The cry, therefore, is not a defeat but a victory in faith. It signifies Jesus’ complete offering of himself for humanity. This perspective underscores his unwavering trust in God.

The Cry and Human Suffering

Jesus’ cry speaks directly to the human experience of suffering. It assures believers that God understands and shares in their pain. Catholic teaching encourages the faithful to see their struggles as united with Christ’s cross (CCC 618). The cry validates honest expressions of anguish, as seen in the psalms of lament. It also points to hope, as Jesus’ suffering leads to resurrection. This moment teaches that God is present even when one feels abandoned. The cry is a model for praying through pain without losing faith. Catholic social teaching also draws on this to emphasize compassion for those who suffer (CCC 2448). Jesus’ cry is a call to trust God in all circumstances. It affirms that faith can endure even the deepest trials.

The Cry in Liturgical Practice

In Catholic liturgy, Jesus’ cry is reflected upon during Holy Week, particularly on Good Friday. The Passion narratives are proclaimed, inviting the faithful to contemplate Jesus’ suffering. The cry is often highlighted in homilies as a moment of profound love and sacrifice. Liturgical prayers, such as those in the Good Friday liturgy, emphasize Jesus’ obedience and redemption (CCC 610). The Stations of the Cross also include this moment, encouraging meditation on Jesus’ solidarity with humanity. The cry inspires hymns and devotions that focus on the cross as the source of salvation. It reminds the faithful of the cost of redemption and the depth of God’s love. In the Eucharist, Catholics recall Jesus’ sacrifice, including his cry (CCC 1350). This liturgical context reinforces that Jesus’ faith was steadfast. The cry is a call to worship and trust in God.

The Cry and Modern Theological Reflection

Modern Catholic theologians continue to reflect on Jesus’ cry, emphasizing its relevance today. Figures like Hans Urs von Balthasar have explored the cry as Jesus’ descent into the depths of human suffering. This perspective highlights Jesus’ solidarity with those who feel abandoned by God. The cry challenges believers to trust in God’s presence amid modern struggles, such as war, poverty, or personal loss. It also speaks to the problem of evil, showing that God does not avoid human pain but enters into it. Catholic theology maintains that Jesus’ cry is a moment of victory, not defeat (CCC 635). Contemporary reflections often connect the cry to social justice, urging action for those who feel forsaken. The cry remains a powerful symbol of hope and redemption. It affirms that Jesus’ faith endured, offering a model for believers. This reflection keeps the cry relevant in today’s world.

The Cry and the Resurrection

The cry of Jesus must be understood in light of the resurrection. His suffering on the cross leads to the triumph of Easter, proving that his faith was not in vain (CCC 651). The resurrection confirms that God did not abandon Jesus, even in his darkest moment. The cry, therefore, is a prelude to the victory of life over death. Catholic theology teaches that Jesus’ death and resurrection are inseparable (CCC 650). The cry reflects the human experience of suffering, while the resurrection reveals God’s ultimate faithfulness. This connection assures believers that their own trials can lead to new life. The cry is not the end of the story but a step toward redemption. Jesus’ faith, expressed through his suffering, culminates in glory. This truth is central to the Christian hope.

The Cry as a Teaching Moment

Jesus’ cry serves as a teaching moment for believers. It shows that faith can coexist with feelings of abandonment. Catholic tradition encourages honest prayer, even when it involves lament or questioning (CCC 2588). Jesus’ example teaches that faith is not about suppressing pain but offering it to God. The cry also reveals the depth of God’s love, as Jesus endures suffering for humanity’s sake. It challenges believers to trust God in their own trials, knowing that Jesus has gone before them. The cry is a reminder that God hears the prayers of the afflicted, as seen in Psalm 22:24. Catholic teaching uses this moment to guide the faithful in perseverance (CCC 1521). Jesus’ faith, unshaken by suffering, is a model for all. This teaching remains a cornerstone of Christian life.

The Cry and the Mission of the Church

The cry of Jesus informs the mission of the Catholic Church. It calls the Church to stand with those who suffer, reflecting Jesus’ solidarity with the forsaken (CCC 2448). The cry inspires works of mercy, such as caring for the poor and oppressed. It also shapes the Church’s proclamation of the Gospel, which centers on the cross and resurrection. Catholic social teaching draws on Jesus’ suffering to advocate for justice and compassion. The cry reminds the Church that faith is lived out in action, not just words. It challenges Catholics to be a light in the world, especially for those who feel abandoned. The cry is a call to mission, rooted in Jesus’ faithful endurance. The Church’s response to suffering reflects Jesus’ own heart. This mission continues to guide Catholic life today.

Conclusion: Jesus’ Enduring Faith

In conclusion, Jesus’ cry of “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” in Matthew 27:46 does not indicate a loss of faith. It is a profound expression of human suffering, rooted in Psalm 22 and the broader scriptural narrative. Catholic theology affirms that Jesus, as fully human and fully divine, experienced the depths of human pain while remaining united to the Father (CCC 603). His cry reflects his solidarity with humanity and his role as the Suffering Servant who redeems the world. The context of Psalm 22, the Paschal Mystery, and Jesus’ life of obedience all confirm his unwavering faith. The cry is a prayer of trust, not despair, pointing to the hope of resurrection. It teaches believers to bring their suffering to God with honesty and faith. The Church continues to draw on this moment to inspire its mission of compassion and redemption. Jesus’ cry is a testament to his enduring love and fidelity. It assures all that God is present, even in the darkest moments.