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August 25, 2024

Punishment or Paradise

Sermon Series:

It Had To Be Said

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Luke 23:39-43

One of the criminals who were hanged railed at him, saying, “Are you not the Christ? Save yourself and us!” But the other rebuked him, saying, “Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? And we indeed justly, for we are receiving the due reward of our deeds; but this man has done nothing wrong.” And he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” And he said to him, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.”

Main Idea

Because Jesus Endured the Punishment of the Crucifixion We Can Have the Paradise of Heaven

Outline

1. When confronted with Christ we can either judge him or judge ourselves.
2. When presented with Christ we can either reject him or accept him.

Pre-Questions

Discussion Questions

Contrasting Reactions: What do you think caused the two criminals to respond so differently to Jesus? How do their responses reflect common reactions people have towards Jesus today?
Acknowledging Guilt: The second criminal recognizes his guilt and Jesus' innocence. How important is it to acknowledge our own faults in our relationship with God? How does this recognition impact our understanding of grace?
Jesus' Response: Jesus promises the repentant criminal, "Today you will be with me in paradise." What does this statement reveal about Jesus' character and His kingdom? How does this promise provide hope for us?
Personal Reflection: Have you ever experienced a moment of realizing your need for Jesus' mercy, similar to the second criminal? How did that experience change your relationship with God?

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