Today we will talk about who was next to Jesus on the cross. This moment in the Gospel offers us a glimpse into the hearts of two criminals crucified alongside Him, providing a deeper understanding of grace and redemption. Many Christians may not fully grasp the significance of this event, but it’s essential to reflect on what this tells us about Jesus, forgiveness, and the promise of eternal life. As we journey through the Scriptures, we will uncover the identities, messages, and lessons from those who were with Jesus in His final moments. So, let’s be in a meditative state as we read through God’s word and learn about this powerful story.
Who Was Next to Jesus on the Cross?
The Identity of the Criminals
The crucifixion of Jesus involved two other individuals, often referred to in the Bible as thieves or criminals (Matthew 27:38). It’s important to understand the Greek term for “criminal,” which is “lestes,” indicating they were not merely thieves but likely involved in more serious crimes, possibly including insurrection or violent acts (Mark 15:27). The historical setting suggests that these men were likely facing the penalty of death for their actions against the Roman authority. This positions them in contrast to Jesus, who was being punished despite His innocence (1 Peter 2:22).
The names of these criminals are not revealed in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, or Luke, but the Gospel of John focuses solely on Jesus, thus omitting details about the other two (John 19:18). However, in theological tradition, they have often been named Dismas and Gestas. While the biblical text doesn’t provide their names, the traditions that arose around them illustrate varying perspectives on repentance and salvation.
Gestas, the one known for mocking Jesus (Matthew 27:44), presents the darker choice of rejecting Jesus’ sovereignty. In contrast, Dismas represents repentance, addressing Jesus with a request for remembrance in His kingdom (Luke 23:42). This dichotomy showcases two paths available to humanity: the choice to acknowledge or deny Christ.
The Meaning of the Criminals’ Actions
The parallels between the criminals and the broader human experience cannot be understated. Dismas’ plea epitomizes the pursuit of redemption. In the interplay of his request and Jesus’ response (Luke 23:43), there is an exemplification of how grace operates. Here, “today” signifies immediacy, engaging with the Hebrew concept of Yahweh’s presence and action within present circumstances (Psalm 46:1).
Not only does this moment affirm the availability of mercy even in the last breath, but it also challenges our modern days where many feel too far gone for forgiveness. The Hebrew Scriptures are rich with examples of God’s mercy (Exodus 34:6-7), showing that no matter our past, redemption through Christ is always open to those willing to accept it.
The dialogue between Dismas and Jesus serves as a reminder that recognition of our need for salvation is the first step toward it. Dismas, a man condemned to death, had the courage to confess his wrongs, reflecting an understanding that led him to see Jesus for who He truly is—The King (Matthew 27:11)—even in His suffering.
The placement of Jesus among criminals fulfills prophecy found in Isaiah 53:12, where it declares that the Savior would be numbered with the transgressors. This illustrates not just a tragic fate but God’s intentional design throughout history to engage with humanity’s plight. The theme of substitution runs throughout both Old and New Testaments, reminding us of God’s deep desire for relationship and reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:21).
This prophetic correlation emphasizes the gravity of the moment. Jesus bore the weight not only of His sinless life but also the sins of humanity, symbolically placed among those deemed unworthy. Isaiah’s prophecy, which chronologically predates the event, becomes a powerful testimony to Jesus as the atoning sacrifice (1 John 2:2) and ties the old covenant to the new, highlighting God’s consistency and faithfulness through time.
Additionally, Jesus’ willingness to be crucified alongside these men sends a message about the inclusivity of His love and grace. Not even the most condemned are beyond the reach of God’s salvation plan, affirming that all who believe can receive eternal life (John 3:16), no matter their past misdeeds.
The Impact of Their Encounter with Jesus
The transformative power of the moment on the cross cannot be understated. In a mere instance, Dismas’s life shifted from condemnation to hope. His request, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom,” signifies an acknowledgment of Jesus’ kingship (Luke 23:42). In that moment of desperation and vulnerability, Dismas became a model for all of us; his honest plea reflects a coming-to-terms with one’s sins.
Jesus’ response to Dismas, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise,” further exemplifies the immediacy of grace (Luke 23:43). The use of the word “today” is potent and transformative. It reveals that salvation is not delayed or contingent on future merit; it is a gift that can be received instantly, highlighting a divine connection much greater than earthly circumstances (Ephesians 2:8-9).
In the case of Gestas, his rejection of Jesus represents the choice many individuals face today. Choosing to mock the Savior means missing out on the grace being offered right next to him: a living illustration of the decision for or against Christ (Matthew 27:44). The contrast between these two men on such a significant day illustrates that the call to faith is present in every moment, even when it seems most dire.
The Broader Theological Implications
The crucifixion narrative, particularly the presence of the two criminals, enhances the theological themes present in the New Testament. While the act of crucifixion is one of the most gruesome and public displays of punishment, it simultaneously becomes the platform for God’s ultimate expression of love (Romans 5:8). In juxtaposition to the lives of these criminals, Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection become a tapestry woven with grace, mercy, and redemption.
This moment also emphasizes the universality of sin (Romans 3:23), where every individual is in need of redemption—whether one is a thief on a cross or a respected leader. The pride or shame associated with our lives becomes irrelevant in the face of Christ’s love. A key takeaway from this event is that salvation transcends our circumstances; it begins with humility and the recognition that we need a Savior.
From the angle of community, the scene reveals God’s desire for inclusion. Meeting in death with criminals resonates with themes of social justice, compassion, and relational restoration. The calling to love, even the unlovable, remains a challenge but also an opportunity for Christ’s followers today (Matthew 5:46-48).
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on who was next to Jesus on the cross, it’s clear that their lives convey essential truths about grace, repentance, and the promise of salvation. Dismas and Gestas offer us a mirror to examine our own hearts – are we willing to see Jesus for who He is, or will we reject Him?
In every instance, God extends the offer of redemption, showing us that no one is too far gone to receive His love. Always remember, the promise He gave to Dismas is the same promise extended to us today. When we recognize our need for Him, we too can hear the sweet words of assurance: “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.”
The story of the two criminals illustrates that our past doesn’t define our future. Instead, it’s all about how we respond to Jesus. Let’s choose to respond with faith, openness, and a desire to be transformed by His love – something we all need and can experience regardless of our past.
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