Billy Graham Classics - Lecture Summary

Jul 13, 2024

Billy Graham Classics Lecture

Key Scripture

  • Luke 23:42 – "Remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom."
  • Jesus' response: "Today thou shalt be with me in paradise."

Crucifixion of Jesus

  • Historical significance of Jesus' crucifixion.
  • Details of the crucifixion:
    • Lightning, thunder, and darkness during the event.
    • Jesus' physical suffering: nails in hands and feet; spear in side.
    • Soldiers' actions: robe, beatings, placards.
    • African helped Jesus carry His cross: universal relevance of Jesus.

Universal Relevance of Jesus

  • Jesus belongs to all, not just a specific ethnicity.
  • Crucifixion witnessed by various people who mocked Him.
  • Jesus' silence in suffering contrasted with thieves' reactions.

The Thieves on the Cross

  • Two thieves mocked Jesus initially.
  • Change in one thief: acknowledges Jesus as the Son of God.
  • The thief's request:
    • "Remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom."
  • Jesus' assurance: instant salvation and promise of paradise.

Significance of the Cross

  • Central theme: reconciliation between God and man.
  • Without the cross, no forgiveness or salvation.
  • Apostles' emphasis on the cross.

Man's Separation from God

  • Sin entered through Adam and Eve.
  • All men have sinned; separation from God.
  • Jesus' sacrifice provides a way back to God.

God's Forgiveness Through Christ

  • God’s offer: give His Son in place of human judgment and hell.
  • Assurance of forgiveness, peace, and eternal life with trust in Jesus.

Repentance and Belief

  • Importance of repenting for sins and believing in Jesus.
  • Conversion can happen in moments, even unexpectedly.
  • Example: thief's conversion on the cross.

God’s Ability to Forget Sin

  • God remembers the universe and individuals but forgets sins post-forgiveness.
  • Scriptures on forgiveness: Jeremiah 31:34, Hebrews 1:3, Psalm 103, Isaiah 38, etc.

Steps for New Believers

  1. Read the Bible Daily: Start with the Gospel of John.
  2. Pray Regularly: Bring every detail to God.
  3. Witness to Others: Show new life through actions and words.
  4. Join a Church: Engage and serve in the Christian community.

Invitation to Commit Life to Christ

  • Appeal to the audience to commit to Jesus.
  • Prayer for repentance and acceptance of Christ.
  • Assurance of God’s love and forgiveness.

Contact Information for Further Guidance

  • Phone number, address, and website for the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association.