“Then were there two thieves crucified with him, one on the right hand, and another on the left.”– Matthew 27:38 (KJV)
“Two criminals were crucified with him, one on his right and one on his left.”– Matthew 27:38 (NLT)
“Alongside Jesus, they also crucified two criminals, one on the right, the other on the left.”– Matthew 27:38 (MSG)
What Does Matthew 27:38 Mean?
Matthew 27:38 recounts one of the final moments of Jesus Christ before His death on the cross. This passage is significant because it gives us critical insight into His crucifixion and the circumstances surrounding it. Here we see two criminals crucified alongside Jesus, which symbolizes the great transformation He brought to humanity. We might pause and consider the significance of Jesus being surrounded by thieves. He was not only bearing the sins of the world for those who were pious but also for those who were label sinful. This shows that His ministry was for everyone, regardless of their past actions. It’s a profound message of hope, reminding us that no one is ever beyond the reach of God’s grace.
Additionally, the positioning of the thieves, with one on His right and one on His left, can represent the choices that each person makes in life – the choice to accept Christ and His grace or turn away. This is illustrated poignantly later in the story when one of the criminals acknowledges Jesus and asks to be remembered in His kingdom. On the other hand, the other criminal chooses to mock Jesus, showing us that each individual has the power to make a decision about who Jesus is to them. Ultimately, Matthew 27:38 encapsulates the very meaning of Jesus’ sacrifice – to bring salvation to all.
Matthew 27:38 Explanation and Commentary
Matthew 27:38 is a powerful verse that sets the scene during one of the most important moments in Christian history — the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The verse illustrates a striking picture of Jesus crucified alongside two thieves. This marked a humbling moment where we see Jesus, who is without sin, bearing the sins of humanity, alongside those deemed unrighteous. This exact positioning reinforces the profound truth that Jesus came for the sinners and the lost; He identifies not only with the righteous but with the outcasts.
By having these two robbers crucified with Him, we witness a powerful stark contrast. The thieves represent the human condition — sinful and broken. It reminds us that Jesus came to save those who the world often overlooks or casts out. The narrative moves from justice to mercy. This isn’t merely a legal procedure; it is a display of divine love reaching out to the least deserving yet most in need of grace. Through this passage, we can glean that Jesus’ purpose was to reconcile humanity to God, fulfilling the law where we fell short.
The identity of the criminals is important. One criminal acknowledges Jesus, imploring Him to remember him in paradise. His recognition of Jesus as King showcases a turning point leading to redemption. The other, however, mocks Him, epitomizing the heart that refuses to accept salvation. This dichotomy invites us to reflect on how we respond to the offer of grace. Are we willing to accept Jesus for who He truly is, or do we shy away from Him? This interaction challenges us to contemplate our own responses to Jesus’ call.
As we reflect further, we recognize that Jesus’ actions during this moment were not only representative of humility but of the unconditional love He holds for humanity. He bore our burdens, shame, and sin, saying that He did not come to save the righteous but sinners (Mark 2:17). Being crucified between two thieves shows that even in the depths of suffering, there was purpose — a bridge to eternal life prepared for us all.
Context of Matthew 27:38
Understanding the context of Matthew 27:38 is crucial to grasp the full weight of the passage. This verse is nestled in the narrative of Matthew’s Passion account, detailing the events leading up to Jesus’ crucifixion. Prior to this moment, we have seen the betrayal of Judas, Jesus’ trial, and the various mockeries He endured from the religious leaders and the crowd. Each of these events highlights the mounting tension and the misplacement of justice during this time.
As we approach the crucifixion, we find that the Roman authorities were tasked with carrying out this execution. Crucifixion was a method of execution reserved for the worst criminals, reflecting the culture of the time that viewed this as a means to maintain order through fear. By crucifying Jesus alongside two thieves, it served as both a public spectacle and a stark warning. The Romans wanted to dissuade others from following Jesus and create fear, but little did they know they were serving a higher purpose.
Additionally, the role of the crowds should not be overlooked. Just days before the crucifixion, many in the crowd hailed Jesus as King during His triumphant entry into Jerusalem. Now, the same crowd chose to condemn Him, demonstrating the fickle nature of human allegiance and trust. The crucifixion of Jesus between two criminals also reflects prophecy from Isaiah 53:12, which speaks of the Suffering Servant who was ‘numbered with the transgressors.’ This all points to God’s ultimate plan of redemption.
We should also be mindful of the emotions surrounding this moment in human history. The disciples, who were once confident followers of Christ, were scattered and afraid. Here, at the foot of the cross, we see the raw moments of humanity’s rejection of God, juxtaposed with God’s unwavering love. It’s a narrative that offers hope, even in our darkest hours, affirming that God works all things for good (Romans 8:28). The crucifixion was not the end but the beginning of something more profound — resurrection and reconciliation.
Breaking Down the Key Parts of Matthew 27:38
In Matthew 27:38, every element of the verse carries significance. Firstly, we notice the word ‘two.’ This number represents duality in spiritual narratives — light and darkness, good and evil, the righteous and the unrighteous. The two thieves signify the differing responses one can have towards Jesus. Then, we focus on ‘thieves’ — a term that encapsulates sinfulness. It’s a stark reminder that all sin attempts to take what is not duly deserved.
Central to this scene is Jesus Himself. His placement between these two thieves illustrates His role as the ultimate mediator. In bearing the weight of the world’s sin, He functions as the bridge between humanity and God, reminding us of His commitment to intercede on our behalf. Through Him, we have access to healing and forgiveness.
The phrase ‘crucified with him’ carries incredible weight. It symbolizes sacrifice, suffering, and the ultimate act of love. Jesus, the innocent Lamb of God, submits willingly. Even when we feel our darkest moments are inescapable, we are reminded that Jesus chose this path to give us life. Lastly, understanding the physical positioning of the thieves — one on His right and the other on His left — draws us to reflect on our own response to Christ’s message. Are we listening, or are we skeptical? This pivotal moment challenges us to examine our hearts.
Lessons to Learn From Matthew 27:38
The account of Matthew 27:38 holds profound lessons that can guide us in our walk with Christ. The first lesson is the truth of forgiveness and mercy. Regardless of our past choices or mistakes, Jesus’ crucifixion symbolizes the full extent of God’s love, ready to welcome anyone who turns to Him for forgiveness. The presence of the criminals alongside Jesus reminds us that all have sinned and are deserving of grace. There is no act too wrong, no deed too dark that cannot be washed clean by the blood of Jesus.
Secondly, we learn about the power of our choices. The two thieves represent two responses to Christ — acceptance or rejection. Each of their paths illustrates our human tendency to choose life or death, faith or doubt. This story encourages us to actively engage with our decisions about who we see Jesus to be. Do we accept Him as our Lord and Savior, trusting in His promises, or do we allow ourselves to stand in skepticism and doubt? We are invited to embrace faith and cultivate a relationship with God.
Another powerful lesson is the significance of Jesus’ sacrifice. He knew that being crucified was the way to fulfill the prophecy and redeem humanity. His commitment to the call reflects the depth of His love. In our own lives, we may find ourselves faced with challenges where the call to love may be costly. Yet, this passage inspires us to love others with the same intensity and to share Christ’s message of hope and salvation.
Lastly, we are reminded that in times of suffering, God is present. In moments when we feel isolated or facing our darkest hours, we can take solace in knowing that Jesus understands our pain. He experienced suffering, mockery, and rejection so that we may have the assurance that He is with us every step of the way. This truth can encourage us as we go through life’s challenges. It leaves us with hope, knowing that just as there was a resurrection after the cross, God can bring new life from our struggles as well.
Final Thoughts
In concluding our reflection on Matthew 27:38, we recognize the immense truth found within this simple yet profound verse. The crucifixion of Jesus alongside two thieves challenges us to evaluate our relationship with Him. It beautifully showcases His willingness to pour out His love for the unlovable, transcending time and culture. We are reminded that His grace is sufficient for our needs and that our past does not define who we are or what we can become.
As we navigate our spiritual journey, let us not forget that this moment on the cross was just the beginning. Jesus’ ultimate victory over death through resurrection is what offers us hope today. Through Him, we find forgiveness, acceptance, and a new identity as children of God. There is a call for us to respond to the grace extended to us, and we are invited to bring others with us in our journey of faith. May we hold fast to the message of love and hope that we find in the Gospel, yearning to share it with a world that is desperately in need of light.
If you wish to explore more about biblical themes and teachings, consider checking out topics such as Matthew 11 or even the creation narratives in Genesis. There is a wealth of knowledge available that invites us to understand God’s Word in a deeper way.