The Great Divider

The Great Divider

Bible: Luke 23:33-43

Reading

Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in
paradise” (V.33).

When Jesus died on the cross, He paid for the sin of the human race— everything we have ever done wrong to God and others. But only those who trust Him can enjoy the new life He offers. Jesus’ death is available for all, but it only makes a difference for those who choose Him.
As Jesus hung on the cross, two criminals were crucified next to Him. One of those men is now lost in hell forever. The other is with Jesus—his place in heaven safe and secured forever. Their opposite attitudes towards Jesus made all the difference. One of the criminals threw insults at Jesus in unbelief. The other trusted Jesus, crying out, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your
kingdom” (LUKE 23:42). To him, Jesus said, “Today you will be with me in paradise” (V.43).
We are all like one of those two men. We either believe in Jesus or we reject Him. Our future depends on our decision. Jesus said this about Himself, “Whoever believes in [me] is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already” (JOHN 3:18). In dying on the cross, Jesus became the great divider: we are either with Him or we’re on our own. As we think about the cross, let’s thank Jesus for paying for our sin. If you haven’t trusted Him yet, do it today!

AT THE CROSS, WE ALL STAND AT

THE CROSSROADS TO HEAVEN OR HELL.

Youth Edition – Our Daily Bread Ministries