Chuck Smith explores the significance of Jesus being crucified between two thieves, emphasizing that this was no accident but a divine plan to demonstrate the depths of His willingness to redeem humanity. He highlights how both thieves were guilty yet one received grace, illustrating that salvation is not based on works but on faith and God's grace. Smith also reflects on the heart of the Savior, who, even in His agony, responds to a repentant sinner, showcasing His compassion. Furthermore, he suggests that this moment served to encourage Jesus, as He faced the cross, by allowing Him to witness the first fruits of His redemptive work.

Intro: NO accident that Jesus crucified between two thieves. Prophesied in Isa. 53. Why would God ordain this? I. PERHAPS TO SHOW THE DEPTHS HE WAS WILLING TO GO IN ORDER TO REDEEM US FROM OUR SINS. A. Phil. 2 tells of the "Kenosis" of Christ. 1. He emptied Himself. 2. "Obedient unto death, even the death of the cross" (between two thieves). B. Jesus traveled the entire spectrum from glory to crucifixion between two thieves for you. II. PERHAPS IT WAS TO SHOW HIS GRACE IN SALVATION. A. Both thieves in similar circumstances. 1. Both guilty of crime. 2. Both had derided Christ at the beginning. 3. Both near death. 4. Both close to Christ. 5. One went to paradise, the other to Hades. B. It demonstrated how salvation is by grace. 1. His past was bad. 2. No chance to do any good work for God. a. He was fastened to the tree. 3. He was yet saved. C. It demonstrated the Spirits work in salvation. 1. Notice His prayer. a. "Lord" "No man can call Christ Lord..." b. "When you come into your kingdom." 1. God had Pilate inscribe on the cross "King." 2. He saw the kingdom as yet future. 3. The cross contrary to Jewish concept to Messiah even His own disciples at this point had lost hope and forsaken Him. 2. This scene transpired before the miracles. 3. This was a courageous faith given to this thief. a. Turned his back on crowds and friend. b. It takes real courage to align yourself with Jesus Christ. For the world is still crucifying Him. III. PERHAPS GOD DESIRED TO DEMONSTRATE THE HEART OF THE SAVIOR. A. Even in midst of agony of death He takes time with a repentant sinner. 1. To the accusations of the crowds He makes no response. 2. To the taunts of the priests He is silent. 3. To the cry of a Sinner He answers. B. "For the Son of man has come to seek and to save..." IV. PERHAPS GOD DESIRED TO ENCOURAGE HIS SON IN THIS FATEFUL HOUR. A. The cross was a bitter cup indeed. 1. There was a suggestion of hesitation in the garden. B. "Who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross." 1. What joy? 2. Being able to save the lost. 3. By paying the penalty for sin, He could grant forgiveness to all sinners. C. Now just before He is to plunge into that darkness and taste of D. death for us. 1. The Father ordained that He might experience the first fruit of that joy.