Message
•
The First Convert
Author
Timothy Laughlin
Published
Nov 28, 2025
Tags
Then two robbers were crucified with Him, one on the right and another on the left. And those who passed by blasphemed Him, wagging their heads and saying, “You who destroy the temple and build it in three days, save Yourself! If You are the Son of God, come down from the cross.” Matthew 27:38-40
Then two robbers were crucified with Him, one on the right and another on the left. And those who passed by blasphemed Him, wagging their heads and saying, “You who destroy the temple and build it in three days, save Yourself! If You are the Son of God, come down from the cross.” Matthew 27:38-40
Possibly the thief on the cross was the first convert who was saved through the shed blood of Christ. Maybe some of the spectators, too, I don't know, but the thief on His right began to be convicted by the Holy Spirit.
This message illustrates the simplicity of the gospel and the components necessary to save one's soul. It all depends upon the condition of the heart. The heart must be convicted of sin for one to have a truly godly sorrow for his deeds. One thief blasphemed the Lord, but the other began to admit that he was guilty of his sins.
Religion has made a to-do-list for people to follow, such as the "sinner's prayer," the four spiritual laws, and other things one must do to be saved. Have you ever been sorry for something you did, maybe a theft, a lie, or hurting someone? At first, it didn't bother you, but then it began to gnaw on the heart with guilt for your actions until you had to ask for forgiveness. This has to happen!
Then one of the criminals who was hanged blasphemed Him, saying, "If You are the Christ, save Yourself and us. But the other, answering, rebuked him, saying, “Do you not even fear God, seeing you are under the same condemnation? Luke 23:39,40
CONVICTION
And we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward of our deeds; but this Man has done nothing wrong.” Then he said to Jesus, “Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom. Luke 23:41,42
Conviction of sins must come first, then confession of sins, then surrender, and finally asking for forgiveness. Keep in mind, the thief didn't ask for forgiveness; he just acknowledged his sin and then asked to be remembered as he acknowledged Jesus as Lord and King. He believed and received!
He didn't have time to repent of thievery, no baptism, no profession of faith, no sinner's prayer, or joining the church. He just wanted to be remembered, and so he was. The night I was saved 45 years ago, a man told me about Jesus and many things concerning the gospel, and then he said to me, "Do you believe God will save you tonight?" I dropped to my knees and said, "Yes!"
My prayer for you is to recognize your sins and lifestyle, and if you are convinced that you are a sinner, confess, believe, and receive Jesus as your Savior! You will never be sorry, and I promise you will be transformed into a new creation in Christ!
And Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.” Luke 23:43
Your servant in Christ, Timothy Laughlin
Minister of the Gospel of Jesus Christ
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