Good Friday is a Christian holiday commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. It is observed during Holy Week as part of the Paschal Triduum on the Friday preceding Easter Sunday. Many people around the world observe Good Friday by attending church services, participating in processions or reenactments, and reflecting on the significance of Jesus’ sacrifice. Here are some of the most popular and meaningful Good Friday quotes:
1. “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” – Luke 23:34
- This quote from the Bible reminds us of Jesus’ incredible compassion and deep forgiveness even in the face of immense suffering.
2. “We may say that on the first Good Friday afternoon was completed that great act by which light conquered darkness and goodness conquered sin. That is the wonder of our Saviour’s crucifixion.” – Phillips Brooks
- Phillips Brooks, a well-known American clergyman and author, highlights the profound impact of Jesus’ crucifixion as a victory over darkness and sin.
3. “By the cross we, too, are crucified with Christ; but alive in Christ. We are no more rebels, but servants; no more servants, but sons!” – Frederic William Farrar
- Frederic William Farrar, a theologian, emphasizes that through Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross, we are transformed from rebels to servants, and ultimately, beloved sons and daughters of God.
4. “Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die.'” – John 11:25
- This verse highlights Jesus’ promise of eternal life to those who have faith in Him, making Good Friday a day of hope and celebration of resurrection.
5. “The cross was two pieces of dead wood, and a helpless, unresisting Man was nailed to it; yet it was mightier than the world, and triumphed, and will ever triumph over it.” – Augustus William Hare
- Augustus William Hare, an English author, acknowledges the paradox of the cross, symbolizing both weakness and strength, and its ultimate triumph over the world.
6. “See, from His head, His hands, His feet, sorrow and love flow mingled down. Did e’er such love and sorrow meet, or thorns compose so rich a crown?” – Isaac Watts
- This quote from a well-known hymn by Isaac Watts poetically reflects on the deep love and sorrow that flowed from Jesus’ crucifixion.
7. “The word ‘Christianity’ is already a misunderstanding – in reality, there has been only one Christian, and he died on the Cross.” – Friedrich Nietzsche
- Friedrich Nietzsche, a German philosopher, offers a thought-provoking perspective on Christianity, emphasizing Jesus’ uniqueness and ultimate sacrifice.
8. “Mercy, peace, and love. May the grace and Lord surround you and be with you on Good Friday.” – Unknown
- This anonymous quote reminds us to seek mercy, peace, and love, and extends a heartfelt wish for God’s grace and presence on Good Friday.
9. “Our Lord has written the promise of resurrection, not in books alone but in every leaf in springtime.” – Martin Luther
- Martin Luther, a prominent figure in the Protestant Reformation, beautifully compares the promise of resurrection to the renewal of life witnessed in nature during springtime.
10. “The dripping blood our only drink, the bloody flesh our only food: in spite of which we like to think that we are sound, substantial flesh and blood – again, in spite of that, we call this Friday good.” – T.S. Eliot
- In this thought-provoking quote by T.S. Eliot, the poet reflects on the paradoxical nature of Good Friday, acknowledging the solemnity of Jesus’ sacrifice while still considering it as a “good” day.
These Good Friday quotes serve as powerful reminders of Christ’s sacrifice, love, and the hope of resurrection. They can inspire and uplift individuals as they observe this important day in the Christian faith.