These words of Jesus – "Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise" – leap out as us because He is speaking these words of life as He Himself is dying. Here we see several striking contrasts.
1) In the midst of the wicked lies, blasphemy, and mockery from those who were around the cross that day, Jesus speaks His word of truth and leaves no room for ambiguity.
2) In the midst of the supernatural darkness over this place of death and hopelessness, Jesus offers a message of immediate hope and everlasting life to the repentant thief that would be fulfilled that very same day.
3) In the midst of the pain, shame, and suffering of the cross – and while Jesus is also experiencing the wrath of God for sin – He gives assurance to the penitent thief of rest and joy with Him in Paradise, because He won the victory that day over all the powers of hell.
Are these words like heavenly music to our ears?
SERMON ACTIVITY
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Keith M. Dewell (M.Div., RPTS) currently serves as the pastor of the Washington Reformed Presbyterian Church in Washington, Iowa. The Lord has blessed him with his wife, Rachel, and their six children
