Introduction
In Luke 23:39-43, one of the two thieves condemned to die with Jesus joins in the ridicule, blaspheming the crucified Messiah. The other thief challenges and rebukes him for his failure to fear God. He reminded the first thief that, unlike them, Jesus had done nothing wrong. Turning to Jesus, he asked Jesus to remember him when he entered his kingdom.
The hymns in this service express our adoration of the crucified Christ.
PREPARATION FOR WORSHIP
Prelude
Call to Worship: Psalm 103:8-11
Invocation
PROCLAMATION
Hymn 73 Holy Savior, We Adore Thee
Note: Themes of the crucifixion scene are woven throughout this hymn: the blood that pays our ransom, the crowd’s despising of the crucified Christ, and the freedom his death secured. Therefore, adoringly we proclaim, “Thou art worthy.”
Worship through Giving
Congregational Response: 463 (vv. 1,3) Be Thou My Vision
Scripture Reading Psalm 32:1-11
Note: In the sermon text, Jesus granted forgiveness to a great sinner. This psalm was written by another great sinner who extolled the joys of “the man against whom the Lord counts no iniquity.”
Hymn 333 How Sad Our State
Notes: This classic hymn reminds us of the true human condition. At one time, we were slaves to sin, our minds held captive by Satan (v. 1)—just like the thief on the cross. But God took the initiative to do for us what we could never do for ourselves. His “voice of sov’reign grace [sounded] from the sacred Word” to call us to faith in Jesus.
Pastoral Prayer
Hymn Insert Come, Ye Sinners, Poor and Needy
Note: We are “sinners, poor and needy,” just like the thief on the cross with Jesus. And just like him, we need to come to Jesus for grace and mercy. Come to him for saving forgiveness. Come to him! Why would you delay!
Message: “Jesus, Remember Me”
Luke 23:39-43
Pastor Steven Thomas
RESPONSE
Hymn Insert My God, I Love Thee
Note: We recently learned this beautiful hymn set to a familiar tune. It is a fitting conclusion to this sermon. With it we declare our love of Jesus, not based on what we get out of him, but on who he is and what he has done for us.
Prayer Response: John Miles
Benediction: John Miles