2. TODAY YOU WILL BE WITH ME IN PARADISE 8-18-26
In this series, we will consider the seven sayings from the cross, one at a time, and seek to hear again the voice of Jesus in His darkest hour. As we listen to His words, may we see more clearly the greatness of His sacrifice and the glory of the One who loved us and gave Himself for us.
2. TODAY YOU WILL BE WITH ME IN PARADISE
This is a statement made by our Lord to a dying thief (Luke 23:39-43). Two criminals were hanging beside Jesus. One railed against Him, while the other recognized his own guilt and recognized something about the innocence and kingdom of Christ. He said, “Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.” Jesus answered, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.” What a statement. A dying sinner asks to be remembered, and the dying Savior promises him fellowship with Himself. So let’s take a look.
I. THIS PROMISE REVEALS HIS PARDON
This man had nothing to offer Jesus. He could not perform some great work. He could not make restitution. He could not undo the past. He could only turn to Jesus in faith. Yet Jesus received him. Salvation has always been a matter of grace. Paul said, “For by grace you have been saved through faith” (Ephesians 2:8). The thief reminds us that the door of mercy is open to the sinner who will turn to Christ.
II. THIS PROMISE REVEALS HIS POWER
The thief was looking beyond the cross. He believed Jesus had a kingdom even though Jesus was hanging upon a cross. That took faith. The world saw a defeated man. The thief saw a King. Jesus had the authority to promise life beyond death because He Himself is the resurrection and the life (John 11:25). Death could not destroy His authority.
III. THIS PROMISE REVEALS HIS PRESENCE
Notice those beautiful words: “You will be with Me.” That is the great blessing. Heaven is not merely a place. It is being with Christ. Paul said that to depart and be with Christ was far better (Philippians 1:23). The greatest promise Jesus gives the believer is not merely that death is over. It is that death brings us into the presence of the One who loved us and gave Himself for us.
_____________
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for Your amazing grace. Help us to trust You as that dying thief trusted You. May we never forget that our greatest hope is not merely a place, but being with You. Amen.
BDD
