July 4, 2012 God's "Unfair" Act

God’s “Unfair” Act Mark 15:27 They crucified two robbers with him, one on his right and one on his left. 29 Those who passed by hurled insults at him, shaking their heads and saying, “So! You who are going to destroy the temple and build it in three days, 30 come down from the cross and save yourself!” PILATE had released, in place of Jesus, Barabbas, one sentenced to death for insurrection. Evidence shows these two robbers flanking Jesus were Barabbas’ co-conspirators. “Robbers” means “revolutionaries”. Barabbas was likely scheduled to be crucified with these two men (Their names were Zoathan {right hand} and Chamnmatha.). Luke records a conversation between Jesus and the two. One mocked Jesus and condemned Jesus for not physically saving him. The other defended Jesus, repenting of his guilt. Jesus responded to the repentant robber (Luke 23:43 Jesus answered him, “I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise.”) Now think about this. God had acted to save this man on this day, didn’t he? If Pilate had released Jesus instead of Barabbas, this robber would not have met Jesus. He would have had no desire to repent of his sins. And he certainly would have entered into Hell on that day, crucified as a sinner. Instead, this robber became the first human saved from Hell in the atoning death of Jesus. When we read of Pilate releasing Barabbas, the killer, and crucifying Jesus, the Savior, we often think, “Stupid Pilate! You released the wrong guy!” But the truth is he released, in God’s plan, the right guy and crucified the Son of Man to save the robber and to save you. What a remarkable love God has for you. Pause and consider: are you joyful God “unfairly” sacrificed Jesus for you?