Why did Jesus say to one of the criminals on a cross next to him, “I assure you, today you will be with me in paradise”?
There were two men who were crucified with Jesus. The first one hurled insults at him: “Aren’t you the Messiah? Save yourself and us!”
But the other criminal rebuked him. “Don’t you fear God,” he said, “since you are under the same sentence? We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong.” Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.
[Luke 23:32-43]
The second man did only one thing – he BELIEVED in who Jesus said he was.
And who did Jesus claim to be? “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
[John 14:6]
Dear friend, “It is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved”.
[Romans 10:10]
Believe in Jesus and receive eternal life. It’s as simple as that!