Christ and the Two Thieves

"Thieves on the Cross," is an audio sermon by J.C. Ryle (1816-1900) that explores the biblical account of Christ and the two thieves crucified alongside him, found in Luke 23:39-43. The sermon uses this passage to highlight several key Christian doctrines. Firstly, it emphasises Christ's immense power and willingness to save even the most desperate sinners, exemplified by the penitent thief's salvation in his final moments. Secondly, Ryle cautions against presuming upon God's mercy, stressing that while one thief was saved, the other remained impenitent, illustrating that not all deathbed conversions occur and that repentance is a gift from God. Thirdly, the sermon argues that the Holy Spirit always leads saved souls in a consistent manner, demonstrating how the penitent thief exhibited clear signs of genuine faith, humility, and brotherly love, despite his brief time as a believer. Fourthly, it offers comfort by asserting that believers, upon death, are immediately with Christ in paradise, challenging the notion of a waiting period or purgatory. Finally, Ryle underscores the immediacy of eternity, reminding listeners that their eternal destination is but a single step away, urging them to prepare their souls without delay.

Welcome to Know Surrender—a podcast about learning what it truly means to surrender to Jesus Christ. Not in defeat, but in devotion. Here we explore scripture, history, and the call to follow Christ with heart, mind, and life. To know surrender… is to know Him.