Easter People | The Thief
How Can Bad People Be Forgiven? Understanding God's Heart for Sinners
During Easter week, we celebrate the event that brings forgiveness to all people through Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection. But what about those who seem "too far gone"? What about the "bad people"?
Where Does Forgiveness Begin?
Forgiveness doesn't start with our desire to be forgiven - it begins in Jesus's heart. On the cross, while being tortured and mocked, Jesus prayed, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do." This prayer reveals that forgiveness is rooted in Jesus's willingness to forgive, not in how good or bad we are.
The Power of Jesus' Choice
While crowds mocked Jesus to "save himself," He chose to save others instead. Unlike human nature, which uses power for self-preservation, Jesus used His power to create a path of forgiveness for everyone - even those considered "bad people."
The Thief's Path to Forgiveness
The story of the thief on the cross provides four key steps for receiving forgiveness:
Confess your sins - Acknowledge your wrongdoing
Confess Jesus's innocence - Recognize His perfection
Call on Jesus personally - Move beyond titles to relationship
Believe in His resurrection - Trust in His power over death
What Makes Paradise "Paradise"?
When Jesus promised the thief, "Today you will be with me in paradise," the key wasn't the location but the relationship - being "with" Jesus. Paradise isn't about perfect circumstances but perfect communion with God.
Does Forgiveness Remove All Pain?
The thief still died on his cross, just as Jesus did. Forgiveness doesn't always remove earthly consequences or pain, but it guarantees resurrection with Christ. As Romans 6 teaches, we die with Christ so we can be raised with Him to new life.
Life Application:
Remember: forgiveness isn't about how good you are but about how good Jesus is.
Questions to reflect on:
What sins do you still carry guilt over, believing they're "too bad" to be forgiven?
How has your view of "bad people" affected your understanding of God's forgiveness?
Are you trying to earn forgiveness or receive it as a gift?
Have you fully accepted that Jesus desires to be "with" you?
Challenge:
Take time each day this week to personally call on Jesus by name, acknowledging both your need for forgiveness and His desire to give it.
