Encountering JesusSample

DISCOVER

Jesus’ answer to the criminal is immediate. There was no time for extensive discussion of the Law and Prophets, no long sermon He might have given at another time. This was a short answer to a sincere request – “Truly, today you will be with me in paradise!” What a powerful and life-giving response. There was no further discussion – both men went back to the hard work of dying. Jesus breathed one last prayer to his Father and then died…taking the man with Him.

LEARN

People sometimes debate the idea of a “sinner’s prayer.” Is it enough for a person to simply pray a prayer for Jesus to save them? Is there one “magic words” prayer given in Scripture? The answer is “yes” and “no.” No, Scripture does not prescribe one formula everyone must say. Yes, the simple prayer of faith can save someone. Of course, God looks at the heart for repentance, faith, etc. Jesus promised He would join him in heaven. We see a picture of this as Stephen mimics Jesus’ last words as he is stoned to death in Acts 7. He saw Jesus standing, receiving him home. One day He will take each of us to be with Him – if we have asked.

APPLY

The devil loves to confuse our minds about our relationship to God. He sometimes uses religious rules as he makes us question our salvation: “Did I pray the right prayer? What if I don’t remember the details of the moment? Did I use the right words? Did I really mean it?” While it is good to be sure of our salvation, it is not good to continually doubt. God’s Spirit will cause clear conviction in our minds if we are not truly believers. Have you sincerely asked Jesus Christ for His free gift of salvation? Do you feel the honesty in your heart about this? Then trust Him. Trust he has rescued you. And deepen that assurance by looking forward to His promise of a home with him one day.