Jesus and Death Row Inmates
March 28, 2021
Even as Jesus was dying on the cross, He proved to be a friend to sinners. Jesus was crucified between two other men who had also been condemned to die. Both of these men were guilty. Both had been convicted. Both men would be dead within a few hours and both men were in close proximity to Jesus. But only one would accept Jesus’ offer of friendship. Join us for part five of Jesus: Friend of Sinners as we consider Jesus' universal offer of friendship and what it means for us to accept that offer.
Passage (read them):
Principles (know them):
The absolute innocence of Jesus
- Positive evidence from a negative source: The centurion (Luke 23:47); Herod (Luke 23:15); Judas (Matthew 27:4); Pilate (John 18:38; 19:4 & 6; Matthew 27:19, 24)
- Also see Hebrews 4:15, 7:26; 1 Peter 2:22; Isaiah 53:9
The undeniable guilt of everyone else
The universal offer of forgiveness and reconciliation
- See 1 John 3:5; 2 Corinthians 5:21; 1 Peter 1:18-19
- Three Differences between Two Thieves:
- A repentant heart
- Faith in Jesus
- Hope
Practices (do it):
- Accept Jesus as YOUR friend: Repent, Believe, Follow
Daily Readings:
As we enter into Holy Week, our daily Bible readings focus on Jesus’ final week leading up to the crucifixion. Take time each day this week to reflect on what Jesus has done for you and to prepare your heart for the celebration of His resurrection
Palm Sunday: Zechariah 9:9; Luke 19:28-40
Monday: Isaiah 56:1-8; Luke 19:41-48
Tuesday: Psalm 118:19-27; Psalm 110; Luke 20
Wednesday: Luke 21; Mark 14:1-11
Thursday: Isaiah 50:4-10; Luke 22:1-65
Good Friday: Psalm 22; Luke 22:66-71, 23:1-56
Saturday: Isaiah 52:13-15; Isaiah 53; Luke 23:56
Easter Sunday: Isaiah 52:7-10; Luke 24
Suggested Resources:
Books:
Six Hours One Friday, byMax Lucado
He Chose the Nails, by Max Lucado
Movies:
The Passion of the Christ (2004)
Sermons at ssbc.org:
Cross Roads (2017)
With This Cup (2019)