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To: LevinFan
The good thief wouldn't have undergone the pangs of purgatory because he was a Saint. The reason we know he is a Saint is because of Christ's declaration to him on the cross.

I don't believe his name is recorded. Traditionally he is given the name Dismas. Or rather 'Saint Dismas'.

Dismas is an example of a Saint who to our eyes - like St Madgalene - appeared to come very, very late to the vineyard.

Not too late though. We can't be sure, but it looks like the first Saint in heaven may have been this penitent thief.

Imagine the scene of Golgotha. In all those horrific hours of the crucifixion one voice was raised in prayer and praise of the living God - and it was the voice of Dismas saying 'Lord, remember me when you come into your kingdom'.

12 posted on 11/01/2011 11:00:57 AM PDT by agere_contra ("Debt is the foundation of destruction" : Sarah Palin.)
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To: agere_contra

All who believe by faith are saints. People are called saints left and right in the NT. The thief was saved only by his faith. There is no place mentioned in the Bible discussing anything between Heaven and Hell.purgatory is man made to help sinners feel better about sinning, rather than taking their sins to Jesus.


19 posted on 11/01/2011 11:39:56 AM PDT by LevinFan
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To: agere_contra

All who believe by faith are saints. People are called saints left and right in the NT. The thief was saved only by his faith. There is no place mentioned in the Bible discussing anything between Heaven and Hell.purgatory is man made to help sinners feel better about sinning, rather than taking their sins to Jesus.


20 posted on 11/01/2011 11:40:08 AM PDT by LevinFan
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To: agere_contra

Why do you claim St. Mary of Magdala came to Jesus late? You’re not making that spurious claim that she was a prostitute are you? She was not.


26 posted on 11/01/2011 12:23:39 PM PDT by ichabod1 (Nuts; A house divided against itself cannot stand.)
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