Choices at the Cross: Redemption and Rejection

 

Summary

In the narrative of the crucifixion, we find a profound illustration of the human condition and the transformative power of faith. As Jesus hung on the cross between two criminals, we see a stark contrast in their responses to Him. One thief, consumed by bitterness and pride, mocked Jesus, seeking only to escape the immediate consequences of his actions. He represents those who reject Christ, even in the face of their own mortality, unwilling to acknowledge their sins or seek true redemption.

The other thief, however, recognized his own guilt and the innocence of Jesus. In a moment of profound insight, he asked Jesus to remember him when He came into His kingdom. This thief understood that salvation was not about escaping earthly consequences but about seeking eternal life through faith in Christ. His repentance and belief in Jesus granted him the promise of paradise, illustrating the transformative power of acknowledging one's sins and turning to Jesus for salvation.

Jesus, the man on the middle cross, died not for His own sins but for ours. His sacrifice was the ultimate act of love and redemption, offering us a path to eternal life. This narrative challenges us to examine our own lives and consider how we respond to the grace offered by Jesus. Are we like the first thief, rejecting Christ and clinging to our sins, or like the second, acknowledging our need for a Savior and embracing the promise of eternal life?

The story of the crucifixion is a powerful reminder of the choice we all face. Jesus' death on the cross divides humanity into two categories: those who reject Him and die in their sins, and those who accept Him and die to their sins. The question we must ask ourselves is, in which category do we belong?

Key Takeaways:

1. The Choice of the Two Thieves: The two thieves on the cross represent the choices we all face. One rejected Jesus, seeking only to escape his immediate suffering, while the other acknowledged his sins and sought eternal salvation. This illustrates the importance of recognizing our need for a Savior and the transformative power of faith in Christ. [10:15]

2. The Nature of True Repentance: True repentance involves acknowledging our sins and turning away from them, not merely seeking to escape their consequences. The second thief's plea to Jesus demonstrates a genuine desire for redemption and a recognition of Jesus' divine authority. [13:17]

3. Jesus' Sacrificial Love: Jesus' death on the cross was an act of sacrificial love, taking upon Himself the punishment we deserve. His willingness to die for our sins offers us the opportunity for eternal life, highlighting the depth of His love and the magnitude of His sacrifice. [18:53]

4. The Impact of Jesus' Sacrifice: Understanding the significance of Jesus' sacrifice should humble us and transform our daily lives. It calls us to live with an awareness of His grace, shaping our actions and attitudes in gratitude for what He has done. [19:38]

5. The Dividing Line of the Cross: Jesus' cross divides humanity into those who accept Him and those who reject Him. This division is not based on our merits but on our response to His offer of salvation. The choice we make determines our eternal destiny. [24:04]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:51] - The Scene at Calvary
- [02:33] - Three Men, Three Destinies
- [03:17] - Reading from Luke 23
- [04:49] - The First Thief's Rejection
- [06:28] - The End of Life Perspective
- [08:46] - Seeking Escape, Not Salvation
- [10:15] - The Only Salvation
- [11:04] - The Second Thief's Repentance
- [12:36] - Recognizing Jesus' Kingdom
- [13:17] - Dying to Sin
- [14:55] - The Promise of Paradise
- [16:23] - The Man on the Middle Cross
- [17:59] - Jesus' Sacrificial Death
- [19:38] - The Impact of Jesus' Sacrifice
- [24:04] - The Cross Divides Humanity
- [25:52] - Closing Prayer

Study Guide

### Bible Study Discussion Guide

#### Bible Reading
- Luke 23:32-43: This passage describes the crucifixion of Jesus and the interaction between Jesus and the two criminals crucified alongside Him.

#### Observation Questions
1. What were the different responses of the two thieves crucified alongside Jesus, and how did each thief view Jesus? ([04:49])
2. How did Jesus respond to the second thief's request, and what promise did He make? ([04:49])
3. What does the sign above Jesus' head say, and in which languages was it written? ([03:17])
4. How did the people and soldiers mock Jesus during the crucifixion, and what does this reveal about their understanding of His identity? ([04:06])

#### Interpretation Questions
1. What does the interaction between Jesus and the two thieves reveal about the nature of repentance and faith? ([13:17])
2. How does the story of the two thieves illustrate the choice every person faces regarding Jesus? ([24:04])
3. In what ways does Jesus' response to the second thief demonstrate His authority and power to grant salvation? ([14:55])
4. How does the narrative of the crucifixion challenge our understanding of justice and mercy? ([17:59])

#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on the two thieves' responses to Jesus. In what ways do you see yourself in either of their reactions, and how does this impact your faith journey? ([10:15])
2. The second thief recognized his guilt and Jesus' innocence. How can acknowledging our own shortcomings lead to a deeper relationship with Christ? ([11:04])
3. Jesus' sacrificial love is central to the Christian faith. How can you live out this love in your daily interactions with others? ([18:53])
4. The sermon mentioned that Jesus' sacrifice should humble us. What are some practical ways you can cultivate humility in your life? ([19:38])
5. Consider the dividing line of the cross. How does your response to Jesus' offer of salvation shape your life choices and priorities? ([24:04])
6. The first thief wanted to escape the consequences of his actions without true repentance. Are there areas in your life where you seek relief from consequences without addressing the root cause? ([08:46])
7. How can the promise of eternal life through faith in Jesus influence your perspective on current challenges and struggles? ([14:55])

Devotional

Day 1: The Crossroad of Choice
In the narrative of the crucifixion, the two thieves on either side of Jesus represent the choices we all face in life. One thief, filled with bitterness, mocked Jesus, seeking only to escape his immediate suffering. He symbolizes those who reject Christ, even when confronted with their own mortality. The other thief, however, recognized his guilt and Jesus' innocence. In a moment of profound insight, he asked Jesus to remember him in His kingdom. This thief understood that salvation was not about escaping earthly consequences but about seeking eternal life through faith in Christ. His repentance and belief in Jesus granted him the promise of paradise, illustrating the transformative power of acknowledging one's sins and turning to Jesus for salvation. [10:15]

Luke 23:39-43 (ESV): "One of the criminals who were hanged railed at him, saying, 'Are you not the Christ? Save yourself and us!' But the other rebuked him, saying, 'Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? And we indeed justly, for we are receiving the due reward of our deeds; but this man has done nothing wrong.' And he said, 'Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.' And he said to him, 'Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.'"

Reflection: Consider a decision you are currently facing. Are you approaching it with a heart open to Christ's guidance, or are you seeking only to escape discomfort? How can you choose faith over fear today?


Day 2: The Heart of True Repentance
True repentance involves acknowledging our sins and turning away from them, not merely seeking to escape their consequences. The second thief's plea to Jesus demonstrates a genuine desire for redemption and a recognition of Jesus' divine authority. This act of repentance is not about avoiding punishment but about a heartfelt transformation that seeks to align with God's will. It is a turning point that leads to a new life in Christ, marked by humility and a sincere desire to change. [13:17]

2 Corinthians 7:10 (ESV): "For godly grief produces a repentance that leads to salvation without regret, whereas worldly grief produces death."

Reflection: Reflect on a time when you sought forgiveness. Was it driven by a desire to change or merely to avoid consequences? How can you cultivate a heart of true repentance today?


Day 3: The Depth of Jesus' Sacrificial Love
Jesus' death on the cross was an act of sacrificial love, taking upon Himself the punishment we deserve. His willingness to die for our sins offers us the opportunity for eternal life, highlighting the depth of His love and the magnitude of His sacrifice. This selfless act calls us to respond with gratitude and a commitment to live in a way that honors His sacrifice. It is a reminder of the profound love that God has for each of us, a love that is willing to endure suffering for our redemption. [18:53]

1 John 4:9-10 (ESV): "In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent his only Son into the world, so that we might live through him. In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins."

Reflection: How does understanding the depth of Jesus' love change the way you view your daily challenges? What is one way you can show gratitude for His sacrifice today?


Day 4: The Transformative Impact of Jesus' Sacrifice
Understanding the significance of Jesus' sacrifice should humble us and transform our daily lives. It calls us to live with an awareness of His grace, shaping our actions and attitudes in gratitude for what He has done. This transformation is not just about personal change but about influencing the world around us with the love and grace we have received. It is a call to live out our faith in tangible ways, reflecting the character of Christ in all we do. [19:38]

Titus 2:11-12 (ESV): "For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age."

Reflection: In what ways can you let the grace of Jesus' sacrifice transform your interactions with others today? How can you be a reflection of His love in your community?


Day 5: The Dividing Line of the Cross
Jesus' cross divides humanity into those who accept Him and those who reject Him. This division is not based on our merits but on our response to His offer of salvation. The choice we make determines our eternal destiny. It is a reminder that faith in Christ is not just a personal decision but a defining moment that shapes our identity and future. This choice calls us to a life of commitment and devotion, recognizing that our response to Jesus' sacrifice is the most important decision we will ever make. [24:04]

Matthew 10:32-33 (ESV): "So everyone who acknowledges me before men, I also will acknowledge before my Father who is in heaven, but whoever denies me before men, I also will deny before my Father who is in heaven."

Reflection: Reflect on your current relationship with Jesus. Are there areas where you are hesitant to fully commit to Him? What steps can you take today to deepen your commitment and live out your faith more boldly?

Quotes


One died in sin destined to spend an eternity separated from God and all that is good another died to sin and exchanged the certainty of hell for the security of heaven and the third man the man on the middle cross died for sin so that anyone who trusts in him can find forgiveness and eternal life. [00:02:37]

As we approach the end of life our thoughts begin to change our priorities begin to shift we begin to see more clearly what things really count and what things don't. [00:06:49]

This thief he wanted to be saved but he only wanted to be saved from the immediate consequences of his sin hanging there on that cross that's what he wanted to be saved from that's what he was taunting Jesus about save yourself and and while you're at it save us too he was saying he didn't care anything about being saved from his sins he only wanted to be saved from its consequences. [00:08:20]

The only salvation from sin and the only escape from its penalty is repentance and faith in Jesus Christ the savior God has provided to deal with our sins. [00:10:11]

Unlike his comrade the second thief was remorseful for his sins even repentant I would say in the in the basic meaning of that word he admitted his guilt he said we're punished justly we're getting what our deeds deserve and in fact it's what we all deserve for our deeds according to the scripture. [00:11:22]

He recognized that Jesus had a kingdom a kingdom that couldn't be seen with his eyes but could be perceived by his heart and he perceived it and he asked Jesus to remember him when he came into that kingdom. [00:12:44]

He wanted salvation from the eternal consequences of his sin he wanted this man Jesus to remember him when he came into his eternal kingdom he knew there was more beyond death and so he died not in his sin but to his sin he turned his back on it. [00:13:20]

Because you can't be both alive to sin and alive to God Jesus said "No one can serve two masters you're going to to serve the one and not the other." Or vice versa you can't be alive to God and alive to sin or alive to sin you're going to be dead to God. [00:14:36]

Jesus himself in Mark 10:45 says "The Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many to be in the place of many many who were destined to die and yet now can live." [00:18:28]

Jesus died in our place we're the ones who deserve the cross the penalty for our sins became his instead the thorns that belonged on our heads were placed on his instead the beating and the scourging that should have been ours went to Jesus instead. [00:18:47]

The righteous suffered for the unrighteous the sinless for the sinful he was made to be sin for us so that we might be made the righteousness of God in him. [00:19:30]

On that day Jesus cross separated two sinners one of them rejected Jesus and died in his sins destined to spend eternity separated from everything that is good the other believed in Jesus he died to his sin destined to spend eternity in the kingdom of God with his savior. [00:23:40]

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