The Remarkable Story of the Repentant Sinner Next to Jesus

One of the most remarkable stories in the Bible is that of the repentant sinner that was crucified next to Jesus. This man, whose name is traditionally given as Dismas, experienced a radical transformation of heart and faith in his final moments of life. He recognized his own sinfulness, confessed Jesus as Lord and King, and received the promise of eternal life from the Savior himself. What can we learn from this story? How can we apply it to our own lives? Here are some points to consider:

1. The repentant sinner was not always repentant. In fact, he joined the other thief and the crowd in mocking Jesus at first (Mark 15:32). He was a hardened criminal who deserved his punishment. He had no reason to expect mercy or grace from anyone, let alone from God. But something changed in him as he witnessed Jesus' suffering and death. He heard Jesus pray for his enemies, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do" (Luke 23:34). He saw Jesus endure the pain and humiliation with dignity and love. He realized that Jesus was innocent and righteous, unlike him and his fellow thief. He felt a conviction of his own guilt and a need for forgiveness.
2. The repentant sinner expressed his faith in Jesus in a simple but profound way. He rebuked the other thief who continued to insult Jesus, 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" (Luke 23:40-41). He acknowledged his own sin and God's justice, as well as Jesus' innocence and holiness. He also recognized that Jesus had a kingdom that transcended this world and this life. He said to Jesus, "Lord, remember me when you come into your kingdom" (Luke 23:42). He did not ask for anything specific, such as deliverance from death or physical healing. He simply asked to be remembered by Jesus, to be included in his kingdom, to have a relationship with him.
3. The repentant sinner received a gracious and glorious response from Jesus. Jesus said to him, "Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise" (Luke 23:43). Jesus assured him of his salvation and his place in heaven. He did not require anything from him, such as good works or baptism or confession. He accepted him as he was, a dying sinner who believed in him. He gave him more than he asked for, more than he could imagine. He gave him himself, his presence, his fellowship, his love.

The story of the repentant sinner that was crucified next to Jesus shows us the amazing grace and mercy of God. It shows us that no one is beyond the reach of God's love and forgiveness. It shows us that salvation is by grace through faith alone, not by works or merit or ritual. It shows us that Jesus is the only way to God and heaven, the only Savior and Lord who can save us from our sins and give us eternal life.

What about you? Have you experienced the grace and mercy of God like the repentant sinner did? Have you recognized your own sinfulness and your need for forgiveness? Have you confessed Jesus as your Lord and King? Have you received his promise of eternal life? If not, why not do it today? You don't know how much time you have left on this earth. You don't know when you will face death and judgment. But you do know that Jesus loves you and died for you and rose again for you. You do know that he is waiting for you to turn to him in faith and trust. You do know that he will welcome you into his kingdom with open arms if you do.

Don't wait any longer. Don't delay any more. Don't miss this opportunity. Don't let anything or anyone stop you. Come to Jesus today and say to him, "Lord, remember me when you come into your kingdom." And hear him say to you, "Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise."