| What Is unique about 2nd Thief? |
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Our Father has blessed us with the opportunity to share the Gospel of His Son. By revelation, He has given us what we affectionately call the "Message of the 2nd Thief." It is a simple but powerful message and testimony that cuts at the heart of religion. As religion(s) seek to please God by doing things to curry the favor of God, the 2nd thief makes it very clear that it isn't what we do in this life that will please God (indeed "friendship with the world is enmity with God" (James 4:4)) but, rather, it is the one who has a broken heart and humble spirit that God seeks. The psalmist declares: "The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart, And saves such as have a humble spirit" (Psalm 34:18). Isaiah also tells us: "But on this one will I look: On him who is poor and of a humble spirit, And who trembles at My word" (Isaiah 66:2). You see, the 2nd thief on the cross came to Jesus with broken and a humble heart to ask Him in faith, "Lord, remember me when you enter into your kingdom" (Luke 23:42). Jesus assured the 2nd thief that he will be with Him in Paradise. Luke 23:43. The 2nd thief could offer only a broken heart and a humble spirit. Jesus did not turn him away, even after all that the 2nd thief did. It is by grace that we are saved and not of ourselves. |
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