Between Two Thieves

On Good Friday, Jesus was crucified between two thieves. Three were condemned. Two were guilty. One was innocent.

The first criminal did NOT repent. He received justice.

The second criminal DID repent. He received mercy.

The third man, Jesus, was innocent.

These three men represent spiritual realities that are relevant for every human being.

First, we are all spiritual criminals. We've all sinned and fallen short of God's glory (Rom 3:23).

Second, the wages of sin is death (Rom 6:23). Since all have sinned, every man and woman is on spiritual death row.

Third, God has made a way for men and women under the condemnation of death to be pardoned through faith in Jesus. As an innocent man, Jesus was not under a spiritual death penalty. As a condemned man, Jesus offered his own life as a substitute for others. As the God-man, Jesus alone has authority to forgive sin. As the Author of Life, forgiven sinners are adopted as sons of God who inherit eternal life.

Thus, the two thieves on the cross can be taken as representatives for all humanity.

For those who do NOT repent, they will receive justice for their spiritual crimes.

For those who DO repent, they will receive grace from the only one qualified to offer it. He died in our place.

As Jesus was dying on the cross, he made a promise to that thief. This same promise is offered to all who would repent and believe in him.

"Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise."

King’s Domain Conference: Gendered Virtue

The King’s Domain conference is less than a month away and all the details are coming together. I’m excited that a good number of people signed up for the single’s mixer.

Being a smaller conference, one of the biggest benefits will be the opportunity to connect with other like minded people in a comfortable setting. You’ll also have a great chance to interact with the speakers and ask them questions. We’ve got Michael Foster, Joe Rigney, Toby Sumpter, Shane Morris, Matt McBee, and myself as keynote speakers.

Here’s a quick explainer video for why we’re doing it and why you should come. If you’ve been considering this conference, go ahead and register now so we can save you a spot!

More details and registration info are available at www.genderedvirtue.com.