The one who comes from above is above all things. The one who is from the earth belongs to the earth and speaks as one from the earth. The one who comes from heaven is above all things. He testifies to what he has seen and heard, but no one accepts his testimony. Whoever accepts his testimony confirms that God is true. The one whom God sent speaks God’s words because God gives the Spirit generously. The Father loves the Son and gives everything into his hands. Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life. Whoever doesn’t believe in the Son won’t see life, but the angry judgment of God remains on them.” (John 3:31-36, CEB)
This is why we can not read passages out of context. To read just this passage means that the Spirit is given generously, but if you do not believe in the Son, you won’t see life; only angry judgment of God remains.
But is that what the rest of Scripture tells us?
Did the thief on the cross believe in Jesus? He said he was executed for crimes that did not fit the punishment and was probably hoping that something could happen. He did not trust or believe in Jesus as this passage seems to demand.
According to this passage, the thief should have received angry judgment, not a day in paradise.
So what do we believe?
Angry judgment, or loving father?
aSacredRebel 