Nicodemus – A high-ranking religious leader who once came to Jesus under the cover of night to investigate the identity of the One many claimed to be the Messiah. (John 3:1; 7:50) He remained undercover, perhaps a secret believer. But something pushed him out into the light the day Jesus was crucified. (John 19:39-40)

Joseph of Arimathea – a “good and just” man who was waiting for the Kingdom of God (Luke 23:50-51). He was a wealthy (Matt 27:57) and influential leader in Jerusalem and a member of the high council (Mark 15:43) who disagreed with the decision to kill Jesus. He asked Pilate for the favor of burying Jesus in his personal tomb. (Joseph was a secret   disciple (John 12:42-43), but his bold act of receiving Christ’s body for burial brought him out in public support of Jesus.)

The thief on the cross – A criminal who was rightly being put to death for his crimes. Yet after expressing faith in Christ on the cross, Jesus granted him forgiveness and a place in paradise even moments before his own death.  (Luke 23:39-43)

The Roman centurion – A brave man of power and authority. Yet after experiencing the events surrounding Christ’s death proclaimed, “Surely this was the Son of God”. (Matthew 27:54)

You? – How about you? Have you been changed by the crucifixion? Do you realize that you are guilty of sin? (Romans 3:23; Eccl 7:20) He died for your sins. (Romans 5:6) Have you receive God’s gift of grace like the thief on the cross? Will you turn from your sin and turn to Christ in faith for forgiveness and salvation? (Acts 20:21 & 26:18-20)

“… if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. For the Scripture says, “Whoever believes on Him will not be put to shame.” For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek, for the same Lord over all is rich to all who call upon Him. For “whoever calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved.” Romans 10:9-13, NKJV.

Pastor Mike