Tim centers on Luke 23:39–43—the two criminals crucified beside Jesus—to show that the cross is the pivotal story of human history and a personal decision point for every person.
Both criminals begin by mocking Jesus, but one is awakened to the fear of God, admits his guilt (“we are receiving the due reward of our deeds”), recognizes Jesus’ innocence, and turns to Him: “Lord, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” Jesus answers with a sure promise: “Today you will be with me in paradise.”
Tim contrasts self-justification with God’s objective standard of holiness, arguing that all fall short (Rom 3:23; Jas 2:10) and that salvation is by grace through faith, not works (Eph 2:8–9; Rom 6:23). He highlights Jesus’ sinlessness and willing suffering for our sins (1 Pet 2:21–25) and stresses that eternal life is both present and future (John 5:24; 17:3; 1 Thess 4:17).
There’s no neutrality at the cross: one man chooses Christ and receives paradise; the other refuses and is lost. The appeal: repent, believe in Jesus today (Acts 17:30; John 3:16)—“today is the day of salvation.”
Key Points
The fear of God leads to honest self-assessment and repentance (Job 42; Dan 4; Exod 34:6).
God’s standard is Himself; comparison to others can’t save us.
Jesus is sinless and suffered willingly; salvation rests on who He is, not what we do.
Faith looks to “the Man on the middle cross,” trusting His promise.
Urgent call: there is no neutral response to Jesus—choose Him today.