Week of April 12th - Assurance of Heaven

Key Thought:
Two criminals being crucified next to Jesus had undoubtedly lived selfish lives that hurt others in order to accomplish their own goals. The culmination of their lives was to be found in a shameful and painful capital punishment execution at the hands of the notoriously ruthless Romans. Their past was full of regrets and guilt and their short futures were full of overwhelming hopelessness. What can be done to correct a lifetime of sin when you have only hours to live and you’re stuck on a cross barely able to breath or speak?

Even if Jesus were the prophesied Messiah, what audacity it would be to ask him at a time like this for his help. He must know how unworthy they were of forgiveness and a future in Paradise. Yet, one of the criminals asked anyway. This was the only hope left to someone who could not do anything to right his wrongs or visit a religious meeting or turn over a new leaf. In desperation he asked by faith (obviously believing in Jesus’ power to be resurrected) if Jesus would also resurrect him too. This simple ask out of a humble heart and sincere belief bought this criminal some more time. He gained an eternity!

How could he and how can we be certain that eternal life was actually granted? The certainty comes from Jesus’ words. Anything that Jesus says can be counted on. During the short time that the repentant criminal hung on the cross after this spiritual conversation, he had peace knowing his life was ending but his soul was safe, because Jesus said so. Today we don’t hear Jesus’ words from his lips but, just as good is that we can read them in the Bible. If you ever have doubts about your eternal destiny in heaven, take some time to read some of the promises of scripture. If you believe those words as you’re reading them, your faith connecting with God’s truth will produce peace inside of you.

Bible Reading:
Monday – Luke 23:39-43
Tuesday – John 3:16-18
Wednesday – 1 John 5:11-13
Thursday – 1 Timothy 1:15, 16
Friday – John 5:24

Questions to Ponder During the Week:

1. There’s a commercial running on TV lately (I don’t remember what it’s for), where a nerdy guy in his office asks out a good looking associate, but he is certain she will reject him. To his surprise she says “yes” and everyone is shocked. There are some things that we don’t feel worthy of that we ask for anyway – have you ever done this?
2. Do you remember a time in your life when you were acutely aware of your unworthiness to receive God’s forgiveness and it felt difficult to even ask it of him?
3. Do you ever have doubts that God really could have forgiven you of everything?
4. How does the story of the criminal on the cross who was forgiven give you hope?
5. What would be your advice to someone who keeps doubting God’s ability to forgive them?