How does the thief on the cross fit into your theology? No baptism, no communion, no confirmation, no speaking in tongues, no mission trip, no volunteerism, no financial gifts, and no church clothes. He couldn’t even bend his knees to pray. He didn’t say the sinner’s prayer and among other things, he was a thief. Jesus didn’t take way his pain, heal his body, or smite his scoffers. Yet, it was a thief who walked into paradise the same hour as Jesus simply by BELIEVING.
He had nothing more to offer other than his belief that Jesus was who He said He was. No spin from brilliant theologians. No ego or arrogance. No shiny lights, skinny jeans, or crafty words. No fog machine, donuts, or coffee in the lobby. Just a naked dying man on a cross unable to even fold his hands to pray. “For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son so that whoever BELIEVES in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16) That is the good news of the Gospel!
Today, we explore the powerful story of the thief on the cross. His encounter with Jesus offers a remarkable testament to the saving grace of our Lord and serves as a reminder of the transformative power of faith.
Scripture Reading:
Luke 23:39-43 (NIV) 39 One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at him: “Aren’t you the Messiah? Save yourself and us!” 40 But the other criminal rebuked him. “Don’t you fear God,” he said, “since you are under the same sentence? 41 We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong.” 42 Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” 43 Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.”
I. The Power of Belief
The thief on the cross had no opportunity to partake in the rituals or good works that often accompany a life of faith. He couldn’t be baptized, take communion, or contribute to his community. He was a condemned man, guilty and deserving of his punishment. Yet, in his final moments, he demonstrated an unwavering belief in Jesus. This simple act of faith was enough to secure him a place in paradise.
John 3:16 (NIV) states, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” The story of the thief on the cross exemplifies this profound truth. It reminds us that salvation is not earned through works or rituals, but through the grace of God and our belief in His Son, Jesus Christ.
II. The Transformative Power of Faith
The thief on the cross teaches us that no one is beyond the reach of God’s love and forgiveness. Ellen G. White writes in Desire of Ages, p. 749, “His heart was open for the Holy Spirit to do its gracious work and set him free from the bondage of sin.” Even in his final moments, the thief’s faith transformed his heart and allowed him to experience the saving grace of God.
The thief’s story is a reminder that it is never too late to turn to Jesus. No matter our past mistakes or the depth of our sins, when we humble ourselves and place our faith in Jesus, we can experience the life-changing power of God’s love.
III. The Essence of the Gospel
In an age where distractions and materialism often cloud our understanding of the Gospel, the story of the thief on the cross serves as a poignant reminder of its essence. The Gospel is not about outward appearances, rituals, or good deeds. It is about the transformative power of faith in Jesus and the unfathomable grace of God that saves even the most undeserving.
The thief on the cross had nothing to offer but his belief. His story calls us to strip away the trappings of modern religion and focus on the heart of the Gospel: a relationship with Jesus Christ grounded in faith and love.
Conclusion:
As we reflect on the story of the thief on the cross, let us remember the power of belief, the transformative nature of faith, and the essence of the Gospel. Our salvation is not found in our works or rituals but in the saving grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. Let us focus on cultivating a deep, personal relationship with Him, trusting that His grace is sufficient for our salvation.
May we, like the thief on the cross, find comfort in Jesus’ words, “Truly I tell you, today you will
be with me in paradise” (Luke 23:43, NIV). For it is in Jesus that we find hope, forgiveness, and the promise of eternal life.
As we go forth today, let us remember the lessons from the thief on the cross:
- The power of belief: Our faith in Jesus Christ is the cornerstone of our salvation. We must trust in His love, grace, and forgiveness, knowing that He alone can save us from our sins.
- The transformative power of faith: No matter our past, it is never too late to turn to Jesus. When we put our faith in Him, He can transform our hearts and lives, setting us free from the bondage of sin.
- The essence of the Gospel: The Gospel is not about outward appearances, rituals, or good deeds. It is about a relationship with Jesus Christ, grounded in faith and love. Let us focus on nurturing that relationship, allowing His grace to permeate every aspect of our lives.
I encourage us to ponder the story of the thief on the cross and the lessons it holds for our own life. May the Lord bless you and keep you, guiding you ever closer to His love and grace.
karambi