webdog said:I didn't expect him to do anything. I read the story for what it says...not what you want it to say. He didn't want to give up self.
When did he say that? He never said "Jesus I want to be saved, but when I get their I want to go through heaven stealing."
You have to "assume" that the new life of Christ, would have the same type of effect it had on every OTHER person who was saved in scripture: they continue to follow Christ. Scripture states that those who do not do so, were never His.
The story of the rich young ruler is undeniable> it points to exactly what is being discussed here. He was unwilling to submit to Christ, and went away unsaved.
But actually since this is a claim often made by the other side, lets look> did the thief produce fruit? YES! A changed attitude, and submission to Christ as Lord!
Luk 23:39 And one of the hanged criminals blasphemed Him, saying, If you are Christ, save Yourself and us.
Luk 23:40 But answering, the other rebuked him, saying, Do you not fear God, since you are in the same condemnation.
Luk 23:41 And we indeed justly so, for we receive the due reward of our deeds(he confesses His sins; he is repentant), but this Man has done nothing amiss.
Luk 23:42 And he said to Jesus, Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.
Luk 23:43 And Jesus said to him, Truly I say to you, Today you shall be with Me in Paradise.
There is no doubt here, the thief changed his ways, even though he was unable to demonstrate it.