The Three Crosses: Three Kinds of Humanity
On the hill called Golgotha stood three crosses, but they represented far more than three executions. They portrayed the entire story of humanity in relation to God. Every person who has ever lived is reflected in one of those crosses, while the center cross reveals God's answer to the human condition. The first cross represents the rebellious sinner. The criminal hanging there acknowledged neither his guilt nor Christ's lordship. Even in the face of death, he mocked the only One who could save him. He died in sin, still under its guilt, power, and condemnation. His cross is the picture of humanity that rejects God's grace, choosing unbelief over faith. Though physically closest to Jesus, he remained spiritually distant because proximity to Christ is never a substitute for trusting Christ. The second cross represents the repentant sinner. This criminal began where every sinner must begin with an honest confession of guilt. He recognized Jesus' innocence, believed in His...