Evidence of the Salvation of the Thief on the Cross

Some argue that the thief on the cross was saved without showing acts of faith, using him as proof that salvation requires nothing more than a mental assent, a mere passive belief. Certain streams of “free grace” theology stress that salvation requires only a mental act of trust in Christ, with no necessary evidence in repentance or transformation. 

It is true that those on their deathbed who turn to Christ, may only faintly express their faith and yet be truly saved. But it is not biblically correct to conclude from this, that salvation by grace requires neither repentance nor genuine acts of faith. Those antinomian teachers (also known as “easy-belief teachers”, “grace-without-fruit voices”, etc.) often appeal to the thief’s conversion as proof that salvation requires nothing more than a momentary act of belief. According to them, repentance, transformation, or any evidence of faith is unnecessary. 

Yet, the Gospel account of the repentant thief on the cross (Luke 23:39–43), when carefully read, reveals that the thief’s salvation was not received without repentance and the fruits of faith. Several clear pieces of evidence emerge from his words and attitude, showing the reality of God’s saving work in his heart.

1. A Change of Heart Towards Sin: At first, both thieves reviled Jesus (Matt. 27:44; Mark 15:32). But one thief was transformed. He stopped railing against Christ, and instead rebuked the other criminal: “Dost not thou fear God, seeing thou art in the same condemnation?” (Luke 23:40). This shows repentance—a recognition of sin’s seriousness before a holy God.
2. Acknowledgment of Guilt and Justice: He confessed, “And we indeed justly; for we receive the due reward of our deeds” (Luke 23:41a). True conversion always involves owning one’s guilt, not excusing it. He admitted he deserved the punishment, revealing humility and honesty before God.
3. Recognition of Christ’s Innocence: He declared, “but this man hath done nothing amiss” (Luke 23:41b). Unlike the crowd and rulers, he recognised that Jesus was not a sinner, but the spotless Lamb of God. True conversion discerns the holiness and uniqueness of Christ.
4. Faith in Christ’s Lordship and Kingdom: He turned to Jesus, saying, “Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom” (Luke 23:42). Though Jesus was dying in weakness, he believed Christ was indeed King with a coming kingdom. This shows remarkable faith, firmly looking beyond Christ’s cross to His reign.
5. A Personal Appeal for Mercy: He didn’t ask to be spared from death or suffering, but simply cried out, “remember me”. This is the cry of genuine faith, casting oneself upon Christ’s mercy alone, without works, ceremony, or delay
6. Submission to Christ’s Authority: By calling Jesus, “Lord” (Luke 23:42), he acknowledged Christ’s authority. He was ready to yield himself entirely to Christ’s rule. True conversion bows to Jesus as both Saviour and Lord.
7. Immediate Assurance from Christ: Jesus responded, “Verily I say unto thee, To day shalt thou be with me in paradise” (Luke 23:43). This shows that the thief’s faith was genuine, for Christ never gave false assurance. The converted sinner received the promise of eternal life.