Who Was on the Cross with Jesus
Today we will talk about who was on the cross with Jesus. Many Christians do not know what this means. It’s important to take a moment and reflect on this significant event in Christian history. The crucifixion of Jesus is not just a story of death; it carries profound messages of love, redemption, and sacrifice. We often picture Christ’s suffering alone, but alongside Him were two others who also faced death. Understanding who these individuals were provides additional depth to the profound love demonstrated by Jesus. Be on the mode of meditation as we read through God’s word to learn more about these two men, and what their presence beside Jesus teaches us.
The Two Criminals: An Overview
The individuals who flanked Jesus during His crucifixion are described in the Gospels as criminals. In Luke 23:32-33, it is stated, “Two other men, both criminals, were also led out with him to be executed.” This portrayal highlights the gravity of the situation; here was Jesus, the innocent Son of God, crucified between two guilty men. In ancient Israel, the term “criminal” carried a heavy weight, typically reserved for severe offenses. The Greek word used is “kakourgos,” which denotes someone engaged in active wrongdoing. The Hebrew equivalent would imply someone who transgresses the law set by God.
Historically, crucifixion was a punishment reserved for the worst of offenders, a public and shameful way to die. The Romans utilized it as a means to maintain order and deter crime. By placing Jesus among the criminals, the religious leaders of the time hoped to diminish His reputation and authority. However, God’s plan was already at work, revealing truth through this act of apparent disgrace.
In the spiritual sense, these crosses represented more than just the punishment of sin; they became symbols of grace and salvation. The criminals’ presence on crosses next to Jesus was no coincidence. It served to highlight the offer of forgiveness extended to all, regardless of their past mistakes or sins.
In the Gospel accounts, we learn that one of the criminals mocked Jesus, while the other recognized His innocence and asked to be remembered in His kingdom (Luke 23:39-43). This moment was significant; although both men were condemned to die, it was one who acknowledged Jesus as the Messiah, demonstrating belief amid his suffering. This ties into Jesus’ teachings about grace, repentance, and the kingdom of heaven. The interaction serves as a reminder to believers that it is never too late to turn to Jesus, no matter the circumstances.
The First Criminal: The Mocking Skeptic
One of the criminals crucified alongside Jesus scoffed at Him, saying, “Aren’t you the Messiah? Save yourself and us!” (Luke 23:39). This man displayed a lack of faith and understanding. His words echoed those of the religious leaders who challenged Jesus’ authority. It’s telling that when faced with imminent death, he chose to direct his anger at Jesus rather than reflect on his life choices. This behavior is reflective of many today, who, when confronted with their own failings, lash out instead of seeking redemption.
The mocking criminal represents those who refuse to recognize Jesus’ true nature and His mission. His absence of faith and resignation to his fate portrays a heart hardened by sin. He had no concept of the eternal life awaiting beyond the cross, nor did he understand the significance of Jesus’ death. In contrast, this highlights a key Christian principle: the need for faith in order to enter God’s kingdom.
In Galatians 6:7-8, we read, “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.” This speaks volumes about the criminal’s choice to mock Jesus. In his final moments, he received eternal separation from God, a choice borne out of disbelief. The contrast between this man and the other criminal could not be clearer, and it’s a reminder that attitudes toward Jesus can lead to drastically different eternities.
The Second Criminal: An Example of Redemption
In stark contrast to the first criminal, the second criminal displayed a heart that was receptive to the truth. He rebuked the first criminal, stating, “Don’t you fear God, since you are under the same sentence? We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong.” (Luke 23:40-41). This moment of honesty and acknowledgment stems from a realization of his own sinfulness and the righteousness of Jesus.
His admission reflects a heart authentically seeking repentance. In the Hebrew culture, the focus on repentance is significant; it’s about turning from sin and turning toward God. The man’s plea, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom,” (Luke 23:42) demonstrates an earnest belief, which Jesus graciously meets with the promise, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.” (Luke 23:43).
This exchange is powerful, resonating with God’s offer for all to partake in salvation. The second criminal’s faith allowed him to receive grace in the final moments of his existence, illustrating the essence of God’s mercy. Furthermore, it reflects Romans 10:9-10, which states that if you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. The man’s proclamation shows that even in the last moments of life, one can find salvation through Christ.
Symbolism of the Cross and Its Two Criminals
The crucifixion of Jesus, alongside the two criminals, serves as rich symbolism of humanity’s choice between acceptance of or indifference to salvation. The physical presence of the criminals illustrates the stark reality of sin and its consequence. One criminal represents those who actively reject belief in Christ, while the other symbolizes those who, acknowledging their faults, seek redemption through faith.
The cross itself is a symbol of suffering, yet it was also the place where salvation was won. The sacrifice of Jesus on the cross provides a means for our reconciliation with God. In 1 Peter 2:24, we are reminded that “He himself bore our sins” in His body on the cross, framing the moment both as tragic and triumphal. The criminals’ different responses to Jesus reflect the choice each person must make regarding faith in Him.
Furthermore, the two men represent the broad spectrum of humanity. Some will choose to accept Jesus and live under His grace, while others will turn away, ultimately experiencing the consequences of their choices. Jesus’ position between the two illustrates His role as intercessor, the bridge between sin and redemption. As seen in 1 Timothy 2:5, “For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus.” His unique position signifies His willingness to meet us all at our point of need.
Final Thoughts
The story of the two criminals on the crosses beside Jesus offers a unique glimpse into human nature and the grace of God. One scoffed in disbelief, while the other embraced faith in a moment of despair. Through these accounts, we realize that no one is too far gone to turn to Jesus for salvation. It reveals God’s incredible mercy and love for humanity, a love that invites us into relationship with Him regardless of our past.
As we reflect on who was on the cross with Jesus, we should remember their choices and the outcomes they faced. May we be encouraged to respond to Christ like the second criminal, embracing faith and seeking His forgiveness. This narrative serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of our faith and the opportunity for redemption through our relationship with Jesus.
In our daily walk, let our hearts remain open to God’s work in our lives, trusting in His grace and sharing this incredible message of hope with others. No matter where we are in life, His arms are always open, waiting to welcome us into His embrace.
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