What is the meaning of Matthew 27:38? Two robbers “Two robbers were crucified…” (Matthew 27:38). • Matthew singles out their identity—violent thieves, not petty pickpockets—underscoring how far Christ stooped to stand among the worst of us. • Isaiah 53:12 affirms the scene centuries ahead: “He was numbered with the transgressors.” • Luke 23:32 repeats the historical detail: “Two others, who were criminals, were also led away to be executed with Him.” The presence of these men fulfills prophecy, exposes the injustice of Jesus’ sentence, and spotlights divine mercy reaching into the darkest places. were crucified with Him • Rome’s most shameful death fell on the innocent Son of God—Hebrews 13:12 reminds us He “suffered outside the city gate to sanctify the people by His own blood.” • 2 Corinthians 5:21 explains the purpose: “God made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf.” • Their shared cross-beams underline substitution: the guilty alongside the guiltless so the guiltless could bear the guilty’s penalty. • Matthew 27:39-40 shows passersby hurling insults, proving the historical credibility and the cost of redemption. one on His right • Scripture often associates the right side with favor (Psalm 110:1; Matthew 25:33). • Luke 23:40-43 records this right-side robber rebuking his companion and turning to Jesus: “Jesus, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.” • Christ’s answer—“Truly I tell you, today you will be with Me in Paradise”—highlights immediate salvation by faith, apart from works or ritual. Key takeaway: proximity does not save; belief does. and the other on His left • Luke 23:39 captures the opposite response: “Are You not the Christ? Save Yourself and us!” • His mockery echoes the crowds (Matthew 27:41-43), illustrating hardened unbelief even in extremity. • John 3:18 frames the moment: “Whoever believes in Him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe has already been condemned.” The split reaction between the two crosses showcases the inevitable choice every soul must make regarding Jesus. summary Matthew 27:38 is more than a geographic footnote; it fulfills prophecy, contrasts guilt and innocence, and dramatizes two eternal destinies. Christ hung between sinners to bring sinners to God, leaving every reader with the same decision faced by the two men who died beside Him. |
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