Unspoken Sermons · Chapter
The Eloi explained
This chapter meditates on Christ's cry of dereliction from the cross, 'My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?' It presents this moment as the ultimate test of faith and the highest act of the human will—choosing God even when all feelin
What happens
This chapter meditates on Christ's cry of dereliction from the cross, 'My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?' It presents this moment as the ultimate test of faith and the highest act of the human will—choosing God even when all feeling and vision are withdrawn. The chapter encourages believers to will toward God in their own darkness, to act in faith despite emotional desolation, and to trust that God's love remains constant. It emphasizes that God grants human freedom and individuality so that we may freely choose him, and that the will's assertion for God in darkness is the path to true life and union with the Father.
Themes in this chapter
Faith and Obedience
The chapter presents Christ's cry as the ultimate act of faith and obedience, holding fast to God even when all sensory and emotional evidence of his presence is gone.
The Individual Relationship with God
Emphasizes the personal will's role in choosing God, and the intimate bond between the child and the Father that is strengthened through free choice.
Inner Transformation and Perfection
The chapter describes the process of the will being purified and made perfect through trials, leading to unity with God's will.
Characters to notice
- Jesus Christ
The central figure whose cry of forsakenness is examined as the pinnacle of faith and the victory of the will over desolation.
- God the Father
The hidden yet ever-present Father, from whom Christ feels momentarily separated but to whom he ultimately commends his spirit.
- Satan
The tempter who urges Christ to doubt the Father's care and faithfulness in his final agony.
- Pilate
Mentioned in the context of Christ being scourged before him, illustrating the physical and emotional extremity of Christ's suffering.
Key passages
“My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?”
Even in the deepest darkness, Christ still calls God 'my God,' affirming his faith and trust despite feeling abandoned.
This cry is interpreted not as doubt but as the highest expression of faith, the will clinging to God when all feeling is gone.
“Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit.”
After the victory of faith, Christ returns to a peaceful trust, surrendering his life into the Father's care.
This second cry shows the resolution of the crisis and the restoration of communion with the Father.
“I will go to my Father.”
When you find yourself in spiritual darkness, resolve to turn back to God, even without feeling his presence.
This is the practical application for the believer: to will toward God and act in faith regardless of emotional state.