Who Died Next to Jesus
Today we will talk about who died next to Jesus. Many Christians do not know what this means. Be on the mode of meditation as we read through God’s word. The crucifixion of Jesus is one of the most significant events in Christian belief, but we often overlook the two criminals who were crucified alongside Him. These individuals, often referred to as the thieves or robbers, play an essential role in understanding mercy, redemption, and forgiveness. Through their interactions, we see illustrative moments of faith, repentance, and the heart of Jesus even in His final moments. Let us explore their backgrounds, the significance of their stories, and what they teach us about our lives today.
The Identity of the Two Criminals
The Bible tells us that Jesus was crucified between two criminals, as depicted in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke. These men are often referred to as the two thieves. In the original Hebrew context, the word for thief is “ganav,” which means someone who steals but can also refer to a deceiver (Exodus 22:1). In the Greek language, from which the New Testament is drawn, the term “lestes” appears, which means robber or bandit (Mark 15:27). This paints a picture of men who were criminals, likely having committed acts against both Roman law and Jewish law.
As we check in with the Gospel accounts, we read in Matthew 27:38, “Then were there two thieves crucified with him, one on the right hand, and another on the left.” Mark 15:27 adds, “And with him they crucified two thieves; the one on his right hand, and the other on his left.” Luke 23:32-33 elaborates: “And there were also two other, malefactors, led with him to be put to death. And when they were come to the place, which is called Calvary, there they crucified him, and the malefactors, one on the right hand, and the other on the left.” So, we gather that these men were crucified alongside Jesus, fulfilling the prophecy of Isaiah 53:12, which states He was “numbered with the transgressors.”
Understanding that these criminals were likely not just petty thieves but men who may have been part of a larger rebellion against Roman authority helps us see the severity of their circumstances. They were condemned to die for their crimes, just as Jesus was condemned for His own reasons, yet their stories weave closely together in an extraordinary way.
The Repentance of One Criminal
As we scrutinize the events of the crucifixion, we stumble upon a transformative moment between Jesus and one of the criminals hanging beside Him. In Luke 23:39-43, we read about the interactions that unfolded. The first criminal reviled Jesus, saying, “If thou be Christ, save thyself and us.” This statement reflects disbelief and a lack of understanding who Jesus truly was, highlighting common doubts we face.
The second criminal, however, had a different response. He rebuked the first criminal, acknowledging their sins, saying, “Dost not thou fear God, seeing thou art in the same condemnation? And we indeed justly; for we receive the due reward of our deeds: but this man hath done nothing amiss” (Luke 23:40-41). This criminal’s actions show us the essence of repentance. He recognized his wrongdoing and affirmed the innocence of Jesus, which is crucial in becoming aware of sin and the need for a Savior. His statement echoes Proverbs 28:13, “He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whosoever confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy.”
The second thief’s appeal to Jesus displays an act of faith, as he turns to Him in his final moments. He boldly proclaims, “Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom” (Luke 23:42). This simple yet earnest request demonstrates profound belief in Jesus’ authority and promise. Jesus’ response is one of grace: “Verily I say unto thee, Today shalt thou be with me in paradise” (Luke 23:43). Here, we see Jesus bestowing hope even when faced with death. The transformation of the second thief from a criminal condemned to die to a person of faith provides us with the beautiful promise that no one is beyond the reach of God’s grace, regardless of their past.
The Significance of Their Stories
The stories of the two criminals crucified alongside Jesus serve pivotal lessons in our journey of faith. The first thief’s denial of Jesus highlights the struggles many people face in recognizing Jesus’s divinity, even in life-threatening situations. It reminds us of the various responses individuals have towards faith. The second thief, however, represents a heart willing to acknowledge wrongdoings and the mercy available through Christ.
Their dialogue reveals the importance of repentance and faith, which is consistent with key Biblical teachings. Romans 10:9-10 emphasizes that confession with our mouth and belief in our hearts leads to salvation. The second thief’s example paints an encouraging picture for us; even late in life, we can choose repentance and faith. Matthew 21:31 reinforces that the tax collectors and harlots would enter the Kingdom before those who claimed righteousness, emphasizing that authentic faith can emerge from the most unexpected places or situations.
As Christians, we encounter people across various walks of life, and it’s essential to remember that everyone has the opportunity for redemption. The second thief, known only as a criminal, became a symbol of faith that resonates throughout history. John 3:16 tells us, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” This promises that no one is too late or too great of a sinner to be accepted by Jesus.
The geographical historical context of crucifixion emphasizes the brutality of that form of punishment during Roman times, reserved for criminal offenders. The Roman Empire utilized crucifixion primarily to deter crime publicly, reinforcing the existing power. But the act of Jesus dying between two criminals opens our eyes to the nature of Jesus’s mission. In Luke 19:10, we read, “For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.” Jesus’s mission encompasses even those deemed unworthy by society.
Further, the thieves’ story illustrates the breadth of Jesus’s forgiveness, reiterating the teachings of the Sermon on the Mount, where in Matthew 6:14-15, it states that our willingness to forgive others directly links to God’s forgiveness of us. When Jesus extends mercy to the second thief, it symbolizes readiness for forgiveness that can be extended to every repentant heart.
In reflecting on these narratives, we confront our humanities, our doubts, our sins, and our need for a Savior. The footsteps of two criminals stand next to the Savior, offering us insight into humanity’s struggles and the vastness of God’s mercy. These accounts invite us to consider where we stand in our walk with God and how we respond when faced with challenging circumstances, just as these men did.
Final Thoughts
As we journey through the crucifixion accounts of Jesus and the two criminals beside Him, we encounter a crucial reminder of our human condition and the unfathomable grace of God. The stories of these men highlight the possibilities of redemption for everyone, regardless of their past choices or mistakes. The heart of the message is one of faith, humility, and a willingness to turn to Jesus.
We see a stark contrast in the responses of the two criminals. One chose disbelief and rejection, while the other, in the midst of his suffering, acknowledged his wrongs and reached out to Jesus, receiving assurance of salvation. This serves as a powerful lesson for us today on the importance of recognizing our need for God, seeking forgiveness, and the hope that comes from genuine faith.
No matter where we find ourselves in life, we have the chance to respond to God’s love and grace. Like the second thief, we can make the choice to accept help and be granted forgiveness. Let us carry this message with us, sharing God’s love and the inviting nature of His grace with others just as it was shared with us.
Further Reading
30 Bible Verses About Getting Closer To God (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Removing People From Your Life (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)
30 Bible Verses About Being Lukewarm (With Explanation)
4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4