We remember the words Jesus spoke before He gave up His life on the cross. Probably the first words were: “Father, forgive them for they do not know what they are doing.” Luke 23:34.
As He spoke of forgiveness, He was faced with these actions and words of others:
1) Some stood silent and watched. Luke 23:35.
2) The rulers sneered. v. 35.
3) Soldiers came up and mocked Him. v. 36.
4) One criminal hurled insults and taunted Him. v.39.
5) But the other criminal believed Him. v. 40. “Don’t you fear God (Jesus is God) “we are getting what our deeds deserve (confession of sin)……this man has done nothing wrong. (perfect life, no sin) then Jesus the Son of God said this to him:
“I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise.” Luke 23:43.
Simple salvation and grace and forgiveness demonstrated from the cross.
“But God demonstrates His love for us in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8. The thief did not have time left in this life to do anything else but believe and yet Christ gave Him eternal life. He accepted the forgiveness that Christ offers.
Jesus died for the thief on the cross and for all mankind, and He lives today waiting to receive all who accept this grace and follow Him.
“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9.
“If you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus, and believe in your heartr that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth confession is made unto salvation.” Romans 10:9-10.
Hallelujah, Christ arose!!!!!!
Have a wonderful Easter!
Have a blessed day!
In Christian love,
Diane