'The Dying Theif'
The sermon emphasizes the importance of working for one's reward in heaven, while salvation is by faith.
This sermon emphasizes the distinction between being saved and being part of the bride of Christ, using the analogy of the Dying Thief who rejoiced in the cleansing fountain but may not be part of the bride. It challenges the notion that everyone saved will automatically be part of the bride, highlighting the importance of striving for heavenly rewards rather than assuming a carefree eternity. The message underscores the concept of working for heavenly rewards rather than salvation itself.
Full Transcript
Lovely old house we were in. We used to sing the Dying Thief, Cowper's hymn, an English hymn of course. The Dying Thief rejoiced to see that fountain in his day, and there have I, not may I, have I, though vile as he, washed all my sins away.
There is a fountain. The Dying Thief, he got into heaven on the last gasp. I expect to see him in heaven, I do not expect to see him as part of the bride.
I don't believe for a minute everybody's part of the bride because they're saved. If they were, why didn't all the ten virgins get straight in to see the bridegroom? The door was shut. You know, everybody thinks heaven is going to be an eternal picnic.
When you get in the door, Peter's going to be there and say, would you try this on for size? This is a special crown for you. And you can try this one on. This has rubies, this has diamonds, this has amethyst, this has something else.
Forget it. Are you saying I have to work for my salvation? No, I'm saying you have to work for your reward. You're not going to collect crowns in heaven as souvenirs.
The Dying Thief rejoiced to see that fountain in his day.
Sermon Outline
- The Dying Thief's Experience
- The Bride of Christ
- Rewards in Heaven
- Peter's role in distributing rewards
- The importance of working for one's reward
Key Quotes
“The Dying Thief rejoiced to see that fountain in his day, and there have I, not may I, have I, though vile as he, washed all my sins away.” — Leonard Ravenhill
“I expect to see him in heaven, I do not expect to see him as part of the bride.” — Leonard Ravenhill
“You're not going to collect crowns in heaven as souvenirs.” — Leonard Ravenhill
Application Points
- We should strive to serve God and live a life of faithfulness, not just to be saved.
- Our rewards in heaven are not just automatic, but are earned through our service and devotion.
- We should not view crowns in heaven as souvenirs, but as rewards for our hard work and dedication.