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Pastor Ian Thompson — Bootle Protestant Free Church

In this sermon, Pastor Ian Thompson reflects on the transforming power of God’s grace by contrasting two striking biblical figures: the malefactor on the cross in Luke 23 and Stephen, the first Christian martyr, in Acts 7.

The dying thief turns to Christ with nothing but need — no ritual, no achievement, no time left to prove anything. His simple confession shows that salvation is entirely by grace, received through faith alone.

Stephen’s martyrdom reveals the other side of grace: bold witness, Spirit‑filled courage, and a vision of the risen Christ even in the face of violent persecution. His prayer of forgiveness mirrors the mercy of the Saviour he proclaims.

Together, these two lives reveal the breadth of God’s mercy — grace for the desperate sinner and strength for the faithful servant. Whether we come like the malefactor or stand like the martyr, Christ meets us with hope, forgiveness, and eternal life.

Pastor Thompson concludes by reflecting on communion as a God‑given means of spiritual refreshment, strengthening believers to remain steadfast in a secular and often hostile world.

For a fuller exploration of these themes, listen to the companion Deep Dive episode on our weekly reflection podcast:
Know Surrender — “The Malefactor and the Martyr: A Testimony of Grace.”