Traditionally, we’ve thought of the two men crucified with Jesus as a “good” thief and a “bad” thief, but this is a misunderstanding. Both initially insulted and mocked Jesus, and they were likely more than common thieves; they may have been political or religious extremists. Their vicious insults remind us to reflect on times when we may have rejected or insulted Christ and to seek forgiveness or appreciate His grace.
Jesus was crucified with two criminals. Their crosses were close enough so they could hear each other when they spoke. As you listen in, you might hear something that will surprise you.
Those crucified with him also heaped insults on him.– Mark 15:32
Traditionally, we think that Jesus was crucified between two thieves: a “good” thief and a “bad” thief. However this is incorrect. Neither of them were “good” and neither of them were actually just “thieves.”
Notice that at the beginning of the crucifixion, Mark tells us that both of the men crucified with Christ insulted and mocked him; not just one of them.
And the Greek words that the other Gospels use for the men crucified with Jesus indicate that they were political-religious terrorists, much the same kind of people that we tend to despise in our own world today. They were both murderous thugs.
This helps explain the viciousness of their insults against Jesus. We can maybe understand why the evil chief priests would insult Jesus, but why would these men who were dying with him do the same? Mark says that they “heaped” insults on him. He wants us to see the depravity of their characters.
Perhaps there was a time in your life when you heaped insults upon Christ, through your words or through your actions. What were you thinking at the time? Were you thinking that what you were doing was right? Or were you thinking about this at all?
If you haven’t done so, confess this before the Lord. And if you have already repented, think about his kind and loving grace toward you.
