Luke 23:39-43
I. Both thieves considered the claims of Jesus.
· One questioned His identity.
· One recognized His innocence.
. . . The precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without blemish or spot. 1 Peter 1:19
II. Both thieves wanted to be saved.
· One from temporary circumstances.
· One from eternal condemnation.
There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. Romans 8:1
III. Both thieves reacted towards Jesus.
· One taunted Jesus.
· One trusted Jesus.
And they said, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.” Acts 16:31
IV. Both thieves died and entered eternity.
· One went to hell.
· One went to heaven.
And just as it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment, Hebrews 9:27
And he said to him, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.” Luke 23:43
1. Today – Heaven is the immediate dwelling place of believers when they die.
Yes, we are of good courage, and we would rather be away from the body and at home with the Lord. 2 Corinthians 5:8
2. Paradise – Heaven is wonderful beyond our comprehension.
And he carried me away in the Spirit to a great, high mountain, and showed me the holy city Jerusalem coming down out of heaven from God, having the glory of God, its radiance like a most rare jewel, like a jasper, clear as crystal. Revelation 21:10–11
3. You –No one is beyond the reach of God’s Grace
“Come now, let us reason together, says the Lord: though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall become like wool. Isaiah 1:18
4. With Me – The best part of heaven is being with our Savior.
I am hard pressed between the two. My desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better. Philippians 1:23
