THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THREE MEN, Part II

The Disdain Of The Government For One Man: 23:38  And a superscription also was written over him in letters of Greek, and Latin, and Hebrew, THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS.

*Even though government officials recognized Jesus’ greatness, He was crucified
*Even though the principles of His life were governed by truth, He was crucified
*The government’s disdain for Christ continues through our day

The Blasphemy of One Man Lead To Damnation: 23:39  And one of the malefactors which were hanged railed (blasphemed) on him saying, If thou be Christ, save thyself and us. (He wanted to be saved physically, not spiritually)

*This man’s words showed the true condition of his heart
*This man’s words showed that he did not realize the disastrous situation of his life
*This man’s words showed the true condition of all men who are without Christ
*This man’s words lead to his eternal destiny without Christ

The Understanding of One Man Lead To Heaven: 23:40-42  But the other answering rebuked him, saying, Dost not thou fear God, seeing thou art in the same condemnation? And we indeed justly; for we receive the due reward of our deeds: but this man hath done nothing amiss. And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom.

*This man knew that he had no power to change his situation
*This man saw his earthly punishment as just
*This man saw beyond his earthly punishment
*This man saw his need for salvation

The Promise That One Man Would Fulfill: 23:43  And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, Today shalt thou be with me in paradise.

*Jesus knew that salvation was instantaneous
*Jesus knew His destination
*Jesus knew the man’s destination
*Jesus knew that full redemption was possible