Luke 23:42-43
WORDS of SALVATION
Jesus was
crucified between two known lawbreakers. These men are set in contrast. One
looks at Jesus and sees nothing special. He rejects Jesus and blaspheme,
insulting the person, making fun of him, three times saying to save himself. The
impenitent malefactor was not open to whom Jesus was and what he offered. Impenitent
sinners stay unconverted upon the pretext that of their own morality and
passion which closes the to the influence of the truth of Christ. His depravity
grows worst and worst.
The other has
an open heart and a guilty conscience. He knew where he stood. He first criticizes
the other malefactor: “Dost not thou fear God, seeing thou are in the same
condemnation?” [v. 40]. They are receiving their just reward.
The two are
alike in respect of sinfulness, their knowledge of Christ, and in their
condemnation. The one was closed to conversion, the other was open to it. He
was open because of the realization of his own guilt and his perception of the innocence
of Jesus. It awakens him to the ability of Jesus to save him. He prays to remember
me in the kingdom. His request was characterized by being short and simple,
humble, earnest, and sufficient.
The promise of
salvation. This malefactor displayed his faith in Jesus. He knew that Jesus has
a kingdom, responded to request and grant blessing. Jesus always response to
faith no manner the form it is displayed. It is characterized by His grace; not
to works of any kind. He had nothing to offer to Jesus except his sin. That is
true of you and me. Jesus declared this man would be with Jesus in paradise [v.
43]. Jesus is always faithful in his saving of sinners. When we look into the
answer itself, we are amazed at its fullness, richness, and appropriateness of
salvation through faith by grace alone.
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