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THE TWO CRIMINALS

Text: Luke 23:42

Then he went on to plead, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom!”

At the crucifixion of Jesus, two criminals were hung alongside with Him in order to fulfill the scripture which says : He was counted among the outlaws. (Isaiah 53:12).

This incidence that happened on the cross, is actually pointing to the fact that everyone without Jesus is a criminal  (a sinner).  Since the fall of man,  everyone has sinned and come short of the Glory of God, (Romans 3:23).

But up till date, man is still categorised under these criminals. 

1. Those yelling insults at Him.

 Now one of the criminals hanging there kept insulting him, “You are the Messiah, aren’t you? Save yourself…and us!”.Luke 23:39 ISV. 

This criminal knew he had need of salvation yet he chose to make mockery of the only one who can save him. 

Whenever the Holy Spirit is convicting your heart of sin, and you refused to call on the saviour for help and cleansing, you are in the same group with this first criminal. 

Also,  whenever you refused the message of God because of the physical appearance or predicament of His messenger,  you and this criminal are alike. 

2. The penitent criminal.

"The other answering rebuked him, saying, Dost not thou fear God, seeing you are in the same condemnation?

And we indeed justly; for we receive the due reward of our deeds: but this man hath done nothing amiss.

And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when you come into thy kingdom.(Luke 23-40-42.)."

Whenever anyone recognises his fault before the Lord,  confesses same and repent,  he will receive forgiveness. 

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.1Jn 1:9.

Just as the  crucified criminal on Jesus'  right hand, you can also choose to ask the Lord Jesus for forgiveness and pardon of your sins. 

Bible Reading:

Luke- 23:32-43.



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