53 AMAZING LOVE F O O T ================================

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READING 53 AMAZING LOVE —————————————————————- PRAY Help me to come to your word with awe, reverence and thanksgiving, holy God. —————————————————————- READ Luke 23:26-56. —————————————————————- THINK As you read this account of the crucifixion, what hints do you find about the relationship between God’s plans and human actions? Look also at what Peter said on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2:22-24). —————————————————————- FOCUS The Jewish rulers seemed to have achieved victory. Jesus, whom they hated, was dying in agony on the cross. They thought they were seeing the last of him and as they watched they sneered (35). But it was not that Christ could not but that he would not save himself. It was the salvation of people like you and me that kept him on the cross. Up to the point of Christ’s death human evil seemed to be winning. But God was there and he was in control. So we notice some signs of change. * THE PEOPLE’S CONSTERNATION (48). They were bold enough in verse 23! What do you think has made them change their minds? * THE CENTURION’S CONFESSION (47). This man said what was probably in everyone’s mind. No wonder thousands were converted when the gospel was preached seven weeks later. * THE THIEF’S CONVERSION (43). A rough, hard man, was the first of that long list of people who have found salvation through the Christ of the cross. * THE COUNCILLOR’S COURAGE (50-53). Joseph of Arimathea, a leading Jew with money, position and influence, had a lot to lose. Up to now he had been too scared to admit that he was a believer in Jesus (John 19:38) but he found the courage to take am open stand. —————————————————————- PRAY Lord Jesus, you came to seek and to save the lost. I pray today for all who do not love you; for those in distant lands and those next door. Turn their hearts to yourself, and use me as you will.