What does it mean to see ourselves as thieves before God?

In the sermon, the analogy of being thieves aptly captures our condition before a holy God. The thief on the cross embodies a recognition of his sinful nature and unworthiness. Just as a thief takes what he does not deserve, we, in our sinful state, presume upon God's grace—thinking we can earn or claim it. This perspective aligns with Scripture’s teaching that all have fallen short of God's glory and need His mercy. A true understanding of our identity as sinners emphasizes that we can only come to God through the lens of Christ's redemptive work, realizing we are entirely dependent on His grace for forgiveness and salvation.