You Will Be With Me

Brianstorming

Paradise — Jesus promised the man paradise, but what is paradise?

Death — How could Jesus promise anything, unless he conquered death. Explore the realities of death and resurrection.

Last minute repentance

But he wasn’t baptised...

“the sacrifice has been made. The way into the holiest is laid open. A new and living way is prepared for all. …Henceforth the savior was to officiate as priest and advocate in the heaven of heavens.” DA 757

The paradise promise is said in the context of mockers jeering at Jesus to come down from the cross and save himself (see DA 749).

“Both the men who were crucified with Jesus had at first railed upon Him…” (DA 749)

When condemned for his crime, the thief had become hopeless and despairing; but strange, tender thoughts now spring up. He calls to mind all he has heard of Jesus, how He has healed the sick and pardoned sin. He has heard the words of those who believed in Jesus and followed Him weeping. He has seen and read the title above the Saviour’s head. He has heard the passers-by repeat it, some with grieved, quivering lips, others with jesting and mockery. The Holy Spirit illuminates his mind, and little by little the chain of evidence is joined together. In Jesus, bruised, mocked, and hanging upon the cross, he sees the Lamb of God, that taketh away the sin of the world. Hope is mingled with anguish in his voice as the helpless, dying soul casts himself upon a dying Saviour. “Lord, remember me,” he cries, “when Thou comest into Thy kingdom.” (DA 750)

While the leading Jews deny Him, and even the disciples doubt His divinity, the poor thief, upon the brink of eternity, calls Jesus Lord. (DA 750)

What must the people thought who were standing around the cross when they heard the thief repent, and ask for saving grace from Jesus? (See DA 751)

This interaction demonstrates and acknowledges Jesus as the sin bearer.