Savior in the Middle-Luke 23:32–43

Luke 23:32–43
Key Verse 42: Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.

1. Look at verse 23:35, Why didn’t Jesus save himself from the cross? Why was it necessary that Jesus not save himself (Isaiah 53:5, John 1:29, Hebrews 9:22) How was crucifixion a victory for all mankind (Acts 2:23, 1 Corin 15:26)?

2. Look at verse 23:39, why do you think this man responded to Jesus with insults? How is his insult similar to Matthew 4:6? How did he see Jesus? How is he similar to Cain (Genesis 4:9)? What causes a person to become so harden even in agonizing pain?

3. Look at Luke 23:40–41 (NIV) What’s different about this man’s perspective? How did Jesus statement in verse 34 help him have the right attitude towards Christ? What does it mean to fear God? How did he see his sentence on the cross? How did he see Jesus? Can you think of a time pain helped you see God more clearly like this criminal?

4. Look at Luke 23:42–43, how does real faith look like in the middle of suffering? What does this simple request teach us about salvation and grace? How does Jesus’ response show His heart for the broken?

5. What does Matt 27:46 reveal about Jesus’ suffering on the cross? On the cross, how did Jesus see the crowd, the soldiers and both criminals (23:34, Romans 5:8)? Practically, when you’re in pain, are you more likely to blame or to believe? How does this verse challenge your view of Jesus in difficult moments?