This is the second of the seven last sayings of Christ from the cross. There were three men on three crosses. Each of the four gospels is careful to let us know about them. Isaiah had prophesied that Jesus would be numbered with the transgressors. Jesus was crucified between two thieves.
Both of the malefactors, as the Bible calls them, railed on Jesus at first. One of them said, “if you are the Christ save yourself and us.” The other one rebuked the first one and said, “Do you not fear God… this man has done nothing wrong. You and I are getting what’s coming to us.” (Luke 23:39-41) Then he said to Jesus, “Lord, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” (Luke 23:42) There was no opportunity for him to do any good deeds by which to earn his way. He could not perform some religious ritual, no joining of a church, no giving of money, no opportunity for baptism. There was only the recognition of Jesus as Lord and faith to call on Him.
The plea of the thief was followed by the precious words from the mouth of our Savior. “Today thou shalt be with me in paradise.” Jesus directed His words to one man, the repentant, believing sinner. So, there on three crosses were three men: One died in his sins, one died to his sins and the third died for the sins of mankind. Will you trust the One who died for your sins?
No comments:
Post a Comment