Week 1 | The Scandal of the Cross | The Murderer
SUMMARY
The cross today has become sanitized, but it was originally an instrument of execution. What has become a symbol of Christianity started a means of humiliation and dominance of the roman culture over it’s conquered regions. So the cross was not glorious or wonderful for the ancient Jews- it was terrible, embarrassing and intimidating.
The apostle Paul, in 1 Corinthians 1:23-25 said that the cross of Christ is a stumbling block to the jews and foolishness to the greeks. But it is the power of God for our salvation.
Luke’s account of the crucifixion demonstrates this well. The crowds, the soldiers and even the criminal next to Jesus all mocked him for ending up on the cross. It seems this supposed “messiah” was no messiah at all— or why would he be there?
Yet the “other criminal” (Criminal No. 2) saw more in Jesus. He saw forgiveness and he knew enough to place his faith in him. Jesus declared that today he would be with him in paradise.
This story shows us 1) God doesn’t send “good” people to heaven, he sends followers to heaven. There was nothing good in this man. He was a convicted killer. Yet it was his faith in Jesus that saved him.
It also shows us that 2) It’s the object of our faith, not the intensity of our faith that saves us. We may never be able to remove all doubt, but we know enough to understand his character and place our faith solidly, reasonably in the messiah who conquered the grave.
TALK IT OUT
1. In what ways did the crucifixion challenge the expectations and beliefs of Jesus’ followers?
2. Read Luke 23:26-43. Why do you think the crowds, leaders, and soldiers mocked Jesus? Was it any different for the criminal that mocked him?
3. Why do you think the criminal crucified alongside Jesus chose to defend him and express faith in his kingdom?
4. What do you learn about the nature of saving faith through this account?
5. Read Ephesians 2:8-9- what is the caution we need to consider when it comes to works and faith?