23:39 railed on him. While one of the thieves on the cross repented and believed unto salvation (Luke 23:43), the other continued his scoffing unbelief until he died. The one assures us that no one need despair of ever being saved, since it is possible at any time before death. The other warns us that no one should presume on God’s forgiving patience. Long-continued rebellion against God is likely to become so fixed in one’s character that repentance may become humanly impossible.