The thief on the cross demonstrates both the free gift of salvation and the natural outflow of good works from genuine faith. While salvation comes through Christ alone, true faith inevitably produces good works – even in the briefest of Christian lives.

Theodore Beza, the French Reformed theologian who succeeded John Calvin, identified five specific good works the repentant thief performed in his final hours:

1. He rebuked the blasphemous criminal beside him
2. He acknowledged and repented of his own crimes
3. He recognized Jesus as king while Christ was being crucified
4. He called on Jesus as Savior when all disciples were silent
5. He opposed the cruel mockery of the crowd

These actions demonstrate that even the thief's brief faith was "unspeakably active." Though he had no opportunity for extended service, he performed what Beza called "the most excellent works of the first Table" of the law.

This narrative beautifully illustrates two complementary truths: salvation is a free gift received through faith alone, yet true saving faith naturally produces good works. As Titus 2:11-14 teaches, God's grace both brings salvation and trains us to live godly lives zealous for good works.

The thief's story reminds us that while good works don't save us, they necessarily accompany the faith that does. His example continues to teach believers about both the transformative power of the gospel and the free gift of God's grace in Christ.

Whether examining the repentant thief through Beza's careful theological lens or Alistair Begg's pastoral illustration of grace, we see the same truth: salvation comes through Christ alone, yet inevitably produces fruit in the believer's life – even if only for a few hours on a cross.

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