MAIN IDEA -
Jesus pardons the thief on the cross at the eleventh hour, assuring him that he will be with Jesus in paradise forever. No matter who we are, we are all offered a pardon for our sins. With that pardon, we experience forgiveness. This forgiveness should motivate us to extend pardon to others.

1. THE RECIPIENTS OF PARDON
   The people mocked, insulted, spat upon, hurt, and crucified Jesus on the cross, despite there being no evidence of a crime committed. Various groups belittled and blasphemed the Lord. Yet, in the midst of His crucifixion and suffering, Jesus looked up and called upon God, praying for the Father to forgive those persecuting Him because they did not know what they were doing. A similar example is found in Stephen (Acts 6–7), who called upon God to forgive those who were persecuting and stoning him. This is the spirit of God that our hearts ought to be filled with—a willingness to forgive others, even when we are not prompted to show mercy.
   
   

2. THE REACTIONS TO PARDON
   Two criminals were being crucified alongside Jesus for crimes they had committed. Initially, both may have mocked Jesus, but one of the criminals experienced a change of heart. While the other continued insulting Jesus, this thief recognized that Jesus was an innocent man, crucified for no wrongdoing. Despite the injustice, he witnessed Jesus praying to God for mercy on the people. This act of compassion may have stirred the thief’s heart, leading him to recognize that Jesus was truly the Savior. When we forgive others, we demonstrate the love and mercy of our Lord and Savior.
   
   

3. THE RELIEF OF PARDON
   The greatest part of receiving a pardon is the profound relief that accompanies it. The thief on the cross pleaded with Jesus to remember him, to recall him, and to show mercy upon him. Jesus responded with assurance, declaring that today, the thief would join Him in paradise. We can also reflect the spirit of paradise in the church by extending forgiveness and mercy to one another.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS -

• Why and how should we forgive those who have offended us?

• How can we forgive those who neither apologize nor realize what they’ve done?

• What kind of relief do you experience knowing that you are pardoned by Jesus?