Who Were the Two Criminals Crucified with Jesus?

The crucifixion of Jesus Christ is one of the most significant events in Christian history, symbolizing His sacrifice for the sins of humanity. Alongside Jesus, two other men were crucified, referred to as criminals or thieves in the Bible. Their presence on the cross has deep spiritual and theological meaning, and their brief interactions with Jesus offer profound insights into forgiveness, repentance, and salvation.

This article will explore who these two criminals were, what the Bible says about them, and the important lessons Christians can learn from their lives and their deaths next to Jesus.

The Scene of the Crucifixion

The crucifixion of Jesus took place at a location called Golgotha, also known as “The Place of the Skull” (Matthew 27:33; Mark 15:22; Luke 23:33; John 19:17). This was a public place outside the city walls of Jerusalem, where the Roman authorities carried out executions to serve as a warning to others.

Jesus was not crucified alone. On that day, three crosses were raised, and on either side of Jesus hung two men who had also been condemned to die by crucifixion. These two criminals are sometimes referred to as “thieves” or “robbers” in certain translations of the Bible, though their specific crimes are not detailed.

The Roman government often used crucifixion as a punishment for crimes such as robbery, rebellion, and insurrection. It was a brutal and humiliating way to die, reserved for the worst offenders and those seen as threats to the Roman state. The two men who were crucified with Jesus likely had committed serious crimes, earning them this severe punishment.

What Does the Bible Say About the Two Criminals?

The Bible provides a brief but significant account of the two criminals crucified alongside Jesus. Their stories are primarily found in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke. Each Gospel highlights different aspects of their interaction with Jesus and the events surrounding their crucifixion.

Matthew’s Account

In the Gospel of Matthew, both criminals are initially described as joining in the mockery of Jesus:

“In the same way the rebels who were crucified with him also heaped insults on him.” (Matthew 27:44, NIV)

According to Matthew, the two criminals insulted Jesus along with the crowd, mocking Him as He hung on the cross. This detail reflects the extent of the humiliation Jesus endured, not just from the onlookers, but even from those suffering the same fate.

Mark’s Account

The Gospel of Mark echoes Matthew’s account, noting that both criminals mocked Jesus:

“Those crucified with him also heaped insults on him.” (Mark 15:32b, NIV)

Mark emphasizes the hostility that surrounded Jesus during His crucifixion. Even in His final moments, He was ridiculed by those who were facing the same painful death, showing the depth of human sin and the rejection of the Savior.

Luke’s Account: The Penitent Criminal

The Gospel of Luke, however, provides a more detailed and nuanced portrayal of the two criminals. While both men may have initially mocked Jesus, something remarkable happened during their time on the cross.

Luke describes how one of the criminals continued to insult Jesus, saying:

“Aren’t you the Messiah? Save yourself and us!” (Luke 23:39, NIV)

This man remained unrepentant, joining the crowd in taunting Jesus, challenging Him to prove His divine power by saving Himself and them from death. He did not acknowledge his own guilt or the just punishment he was receiving.

However, the other criminal, often referred to as the “penitent thief” or “repentant thief,” had a very different response. He rebuked the first man, saying:

“Don’t you fear God,” he said, “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, NIV)

In these few words, this criminal acknowledged his guilt and the justice of his punishment. He also recognized the innocence of Jesus and, more importantly, his need for mercy. Then, he made a simple yet profound request:

“Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” (Luke 23:42, NIV)

This statement reflects his faith in Jesus as the Messiah and his belief in the kingdom of God, even in the face of death. In response, Jesus offered him the greatest gift of all:

“Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.” (Luke 23:43, NIV)

With this promise, Jesus assured the penitent criminal that his faith had secured him a place in eternity with God. Despite the man’s past sins and the punishment he deserved, Jesus extended grace and forgiveness to him in his final moments.

See Also: Who Was Noah’s Father in the Bible?

Lessons from the Two Criminals

The story of the two criminals crucified with Jesus carries important spiritual lessons for Christians today. Their contrasting responses to Jesus highlight several key themes in the Christian faith.

1. The Choice Between Repentance and Rejection

The two criminals represent two different ways people respond to Jesus. One criminal rejected Him, even in the face of death, while the other repented and sought His mercy. This reflects the choice that all people must make when confronted with the message of Jesus Christ—whether to accept Him as Lord and Savior or to reject Him.

The penitent criminal’s humble request for Jesus to “remember” him demonstrates the power of repentance and faith. No matter how sinful a person’s past may be, Jesus offers forgiveness to all who genuinely seek Him.

2. The Reality of Divine Justice and Grace

The repentant criminal acknowledged that he was being justly punished for his crimes, but he also recognized the grace of Jesus. This balance between justice and grace is central to the Christian understanding of salvation. God is just and holy, and sin must be punished, but He is also merciful and offers grace through Jesus Christ.

The promise Jesus made to the penitent criminal—”Today you will be with me in paradise”—illustrates the immediacy of God’s grace. Salvation is not earned through good works or a lifetime of righteous living; it is a free gift given to those who place their faith in Christ.

3. The Assurance of Salvation

Jesus’ promise to the repentant criminal provides a powerful assurance of salvation for believers. The criminal had no opportunity to do good works, make amends for his crimes, or live a righteous life, yet Jesus assured him that he would be with Him in paradise.

This assurance is a reminder that salvation is based on faith in Jesus alone, not on human effort. Those who trust in Christ can have confidence in their eternal destiny, knowing that they will be with Him in heaven.

The Significance of Jesus’ Response

Jesus’ response to the repentant criminal reveals His heart of compassion and His mission to save sinners. Even as He was suffering on the cross, Jesus extended forgiveness to a man who recognized his need for mercy. This act of grace underscores the central message of the Gospel: that Jesus came to save the lost, offering redemption to all who turn to Him in faith.

Conclusion

The two criminals crucified with Jesus serve as powerful examples of the different ways people respond to Christ. One man rejected Jesus, mocking Him and remaining unrepentant. The other man, despite his sin, recognized his need for a Savior and sought Jesus’ mercy. In return, he received the promise of eternal life.

Their story is a vivid reminder of the choice each person must make regarding Jesus and the hope of salvation He offers. The penitent criminal’s experience demonstrates that it is never too late to turn to Christ, no matter the circumstances. His story encourages us to place our faith in Jesus, knowing that He is always ready to forgive and welcome us into His kingdom.