Quote:
Originally Posted by Cassidy
Almost. In the case of the thief on the cross, definitely.
I say almost because it depends, for instance if they died by being martyred. Many believers died after first becoming believers through martyrdom. They "loved not their soul lives even unto death". I don't see that as a matter of growth exactly, more like following the Lord to the ultimate extent.
For instance, in Foxes Book of Martyrs there is one young sister mentioned (Blandina) that may fall into the category of young in age, maybe not a lot of opportunity for spiritual growth, but "loved not her soul-life even unto death" even through excruciating torture. I weep when I think about her suffering and consecration.
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So if the thief would have somehow survived the crucifixion and gone on to live awhile he could have qualified for reward?
How long would he have had to live to have a chance to get into the kingdom reward?