A CLEAR CUT CHOICE
Luke 23:33; 39-43

Introduction:     These three crosses represent three platforms from which to enter eternity.

I.          THE CROSS ON LEFT SIDE - REJECTION & UNBELIEF
Among those around the cross that day there were many with one thing in common they did not believe; they did not trust Jesus as Savior and had no consciences that He was the only true God of the ages dying for them.

            A.        Soldiers – Harden to the things of God.

Unmoved by the sights and sounds there. They had seen it all before. (Illus: hardened to the things of God…you use to be moved but not anymore…something is different today; you feel that tug at your heart again).

            B.         Pharisees – Religious But Lost.

Thought they were good enough to get into heaven on their own merits. They had their ceremonies and rituals and didn’t need the inconvenience of Jesus. (Illus: comparing each other by each other). (Illus: you are only as strong as what you commit to…).

            C.        First Thief – A Crowd Follower.

Influenced by the world around are them. (Illus: when the invitation is given the majority are not going to move…are you going to follow the crowd to hell?) Verse 39 reveals that he is interested only in (the physical) Jesus getting him out of a jam. (Illus: the greater need of soul salvation…a LIVING CHRIST in you will change the physical).

II.         THE CROSS IN THE MIDDLE – REDEMPTION & LOVE

            A.        A Symbol Of Deliverance

Only Jesus could do what He did at Calvary

·        (Gen 3:15)  "And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel."

·        (Mark 15:27-28)  "And with him they crucify two thieves; the one on his right hand, and the other on his left. {28} And the scripture was fulfilled, which saith, And he was numbered with the transgressors." (Isa.53:12)

B.         A Symbol of Devotion

This is a divine appointment; God takes the center cross and turns it into a Holy Altar. (Illus: at this “Mercy Seat” eternal life was made possible. You’ll go to heaven because Jesus took your place on the cross!) This was your cross in the middle – it was a place of redeeming love!

III.       THE CROSS ON THE RIGHT SIDE – RECEPTION & FORGIVENESS

            A.        He Turned To Christ

·        (v.35) “He saved others” – faith comes by hearing (Rom.10:17). If he saved others he can save me!

·        He asked to be saved. Jesus won’t save until you ask to be saved.

·        He asked Jesus – not anyone else. Jesus is the only way.

B.                 He Was Saved Instantaneously (Today)

·        (v.42) “Lord remember me…”

·        (v.43) “Today…”

Conclusion:       How can I be half-hearted and so uncommitted when I realize all that Jesus has done for me? (Illus: The breaking of the legs…Jesus is here on God’s time schedule; not man’s.) Lost friend; you can’t be so bad that Jesus can’t save you. The choice is clear! What will yours be? How will you leave this place?