A Thief, The Cross, And The Gospel
The interaction between Jesus and a thief crucified next to him is the essence of the Gospel.
Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.”
Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.”
Luke 23:42–43
Do you read this passage with joy and thank the Father for His abundant love and grace, or do you read it and think, but the thief didn’t…
Your response is the Gospel; you believe and share with the world.
The birth of Jesus, Christmas, promised salvation to fallen man; His death and physical resurrection delivered that promise to all who believe. This is why we must understand Jesus’ interaction with the thief on the cross.
What The Thief Didn’t Do On The Cross
Religion places expectations of what we must do to be saved. In truth, these expectations are the reason so many people won’t accept Jesus.
So, what are some things the thief didn’t do on the cross:
- He never said the sinner’s prayer.
- He was never baptized.
- He never worked at the church rummage sale or as a greeter.
- He never went on a mission trip.
