THREE WOODEN CROSSES
Luke 23:32-49



I. THE CROSS OF REDEMPTION & RECONCILIATION 
(This man died FOR sin) 

We must note that Jesus was not a criminal. 
Luke 23:4, 13-16, 22 & Matt. 27:24 & John 18:38, 19:6 & Luke 23:41 
For such a high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens; (Hebrews 7:26) 
But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot: (1 Peter 1:19) 
Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth: (1 Peter 2:22) 

A - REDEMPTION = being released, rescued, or delivered. 
Rescuing sinners from the bondage & penalty of sin. 
In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace; (Ephesians 1:7) 
Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. (Titus 2:14)

B - RECONCILIATION = to reestablish a close relationship 
In the garden man had a close relationship, but lost it through sin. 
For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. (Romans 5:10) 
This man died FOR the sins of others.



II. THE CROSS OF REBELLION & REJECTION 
(This man died IN sin) 

This man was a criminal, and was dying for his crimes (sins). 
Malefactors = a criminal. An evildoer. 
Matt. 27:38 & Luke 23:39-41 
And the Scripture was fulfilled, which saith, And he was numbered with the transgressors. (Mark 15:28) 
And as we continue this morning we see this man's wicked attitude toward the only one who can redeem him from sin, and reconcile him to God. 
And one of the malefactors which were hanged railed on him, saying, If thou be Christ, save thyself and us. (Luke 23:39) 
The thieves also, which were crucified with him, cast the same in his teeth. (Matthew 27:44) 
Let Christ the King of Israel descend now from the cross, that we may see and believe. And they that were crucified with him reviled him. (Mark 15:32) 
It is not a smart move to mock, and make fun of the ONLY ONE who can redeem you from sin, and reconcile you to God. 
Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. (John 14:6) 
Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. (Acts 4:12) 
This man died IN his own sins. 
I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins: for if ye believe not that I am he, ye shall die in your sins. (John 8:24)



III. THE CROSS OF REPENTANCE & RECEPTION 
(This man died TO sin) 

This man too, was a criminal. A malefactor, a thief, an evildoer. 
According to Matt. 27:44 this man too, railed on Jesus 
But this sinner came to a place where he had a change of heart. 
He realized that soon he would be dead, and have to stand before God as a wicked sinner. 
Luke 23:40
But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him. (Luke 12:5) 
This man received salvation, and shortly thereafter heaven. 

Here is how he demonstrated saving faith: 
1. His apprehension of seeing God - Lk. 23:40 
2. His admission of sin - Lk. 23:41 
3. His attitude toward Jesus - Lk. 23:41 
4. His asking for salvation - Lk. 23:42