Rev. Cyril A. Stevens – Sermon 0044AB recorded on April 12, 1979 teaching from John 17:1-18:1 – The Lord’s Prayer – The Hour is Come; Father Glorify Me – Special Easter Meetings.
Pastor Cyril A. Stevens explores the profound significance of Jesus’s final moments, distinguishing the High Priestly Prayer of John 17 from the model prayer given to the disciples. Stevens characterizes Golgotha as the place of pondering, a transformative site where humanity is forced to confront its own guilt and the weight of Christ’s voluntary sacrifice. By examining the diverse reactions of those present—from the mocking religious leaders and the repentant thief to the shattered veil of the temple—Stevens illustrates how Jesus deliberately chose to endure the full intensity of human suffering without anesthetic. Ultimately, Pastor Stevens serves a call for listeners to stop “passing by” the cross and instead abdicate the self to the glory of a Savior who finished His work to provide eternal life.