Introduction

Good morning, beloved! It's a joy to gather with you today as brothers and sisters united in Christ. We're here to grow together and to learn together at the truths of our faith.

Today, we are looking at a powerful scene. It's a scene that takes place on a hill called Golgotha, where our Savior, Jesus Christ, was crucified. Here we find the promises of God proclaimed in the midst of pain and suffering. It is here that we see paradise presented to the penitent, and the power of pardon revealed in the passion of Christ.

Our guide for today's sermon is the Gospel of Luke, chapter 23, verses 40 to 43. Let’s read together.

'But the other criminal rebuked him. 'Don't you fear God,' he said, 'since you are under the same sentence? We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong.' Then he said, 'Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.' Jesus answered him, 'Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.'

Promises Proclaimed at the Cross

The cross, that rugged piece of wood on which our Savior was crucified, is more than a symbol. It's a testament to the promises of God, promises that were spoken in the midst of suffering and death. These promises weren't whispered in secret, but proclaimed for all to hear. They echo through the ages, reaching us today, reminding us of God's unchanging love and faithfulness.

Jesus, in His final moments, didn't remain silent. He spoke words of forgiveness, of comfort, of promise. His words weren't just for those present at the time, but for all of humanity, for you and for me. He was making a statement, a declaration of His purpose and His power.

Now, let's consider the words of the criminal who was crucified with Jesus. He was a man who had lived a life of sin, a man deserving of punishment. Yet, in his final moments, he turned to Jesus. He recognized Him as the Messiah, the King. He asked Jesus to remember him when He came into His kingdom.

This man's plea is a testament to the transformative power of faith. Despite his past, despite his sins, he believed in Jesus. He believed in His power to save. This belief, this faith, it wasn't in vain. Jesus responded to him, not with condemnation, but with a promise. 'Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.'

This promise, given to a dying man on a cross, is a powerful reminder of God's grace. It tells us that no matter who we are, no matter what we've done, we can find forgiveness and salvation in Jesus. It tells us that our past doesn't define us, that our sins don't have the final say. What Jesus says about us defines us. His promise of paradise is for all who believe in Him, all who turn to Him in faith.

Paradise Presented to the Penitent

In the midst of the agony of the cross, a dialogue unfolds that is both unexpected and deeply moving ... View this full PRO sermon free with PRO