FAITH AND REPENTANCE
(Luke
23: 39-43)
We learn from the repentant thief on the
cross a few things that accompany true, God-given faith and repentance:
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fear of God: “And one of the malefactors
which were hanged railed on him, saying, If thou be Christ, save thyself and us.”
This one had no fear of God only a fear of death. “But the other answering rebuked him, saying, Dost not thou fear God.”
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confession of sin: “Seeing thou art in
the same condemnation? And we indeed justly; for we receive the due reward of
our deeds.”
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glorying in Christ: “but this man hath
done nothing amiss.”
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submission of heart: “And he said unto
Jesus, Lord…”
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plea for mercy: “Remember me when thou
comest into thy kingdom.”
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sure answer: “And Jesus said unto him,
Verily I say unto thee, To day shalt thou be with me in paradise.”