But This Man Has Done Nothing Wrong!
BRD REFLECTION 2025
Luke 23:26-56 and Psalm 38 (NIV)
(Ade Olopade from Small Group Ministry)
READ:
Luke 23:39-43 (NIV)
OBSERVE:
These five verses of Luke 23 depict scenes of mockery (v39), condemnation to death (v40), repentance (v41), forgiveness and a new life in His Kingdom (v43). The very purpose of Christ’s birth and death revealed itself in the conversation between two criminals and Jesus.
APPLY:
What the other criminal said, ‘but this Man has done nothing wrong’ seared my heart. I saw myself in both criminals, crucified with Christ. I have done many sinful things, but He has done nothing wrong. I am sinful in various ways: my conduct, the things I say when no one is watching, thoughts that do not glorify or edify, and inaction. My posture towards sin occasionally comes across as blasé. I question whether the gravity of sin in my life is fleeting, and if I am willing and able to affirm that any punishment meted out by God on me is “just”. I recognise the ease with which my pride and arrogance can act as a wedge at the place of grace and mercy, and think about how humility of heart brings me to repentance and submission. I also question whether I can stand up to the truth like the criminal did for someone who was falsely accused, despite my sins.
I realise that I have taken for granted God’s grace that is available at the cross and recognise how irreverent my attitude has been. The richness of God’s grace in Christ was available to both criminals, but only one grasped it in reverent fear!
DO:
I seek God’s help to transform my heart and the posture of my worship, as I daily grasp the purpose of Jesus’ death and His power to grant grace and forgiveness.
PRAY:
Heavenly Father, I am sorry that I have taken Jesus’ death at the cross for granted. Help me O God to know that I am the one who should be condemned, but for Your death and love, I have received forgiveness. By Your Spirit, instill in me the Holy fear to walk freely in the truth that You do not hold my sins against me. Thank You for reconciling me to Yourself through Christ Jesus. Amen.
