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Paradise Through the Cross / Luke 23:39-43

The following questions are provided to help you dig in and apply the sermon on Sunday.  You can use these questions in your personal reflections, but we would encourage you to discuss these with other people in your life as you seek to grow in your relationship with Jesus.

1. Of the seven statements Jesus makes from the cross the first two deal with forgiveness. Why is there this kind of emphasis on forgiveness? What’s the implication for you?
2. The thief said to Jesus, “Remember me…” Many times we want Jesus to forget, this man wants Jesus to remember. What would evoke this kind of response from this thief?
3. What is one way you want Jesus to “remember” (deliver) you today?
4. Jesus responds, “Today, you will be with me in paradise.” What part of that phrase brings you the most encouragement and hope?
5. When you think of heaven, what do you think about? How can you begin to focus your attention more on “being with Him” than on where you are going, or what you are doing – today and in eternity?

1. Where do you find yourself in the story of the last 24 hours of the life of Jesus?
2. Theologically, what happened on the cross?
3. How have you experienced genuine forgiveness from another person? How has it deepened the relationship?
4. What happens relationally when forgiveness is not extended or received?
5. Describe the freedom and life that Jesus died to extend toward you? How well are you living in that freedom today? What causes you to push back, or go back? How can those in your Faith Family encourage you to fully live in the freedom Jesus died to  give you?

Troy Gambrell

Matt Morgan