Did both thieves crucified with Jesus mock him? Yes (Mark 15:32) or No, one mocked and the other defended him (Luke 23:43)?

Scriptural Overview

In discussing whether both thieves mocked Jesus at His crucifixion, the Gospel narratives (particularly Mark and Luke) form the central focus. Mark 15:32 states, “Let the Christ, the King of Israel, come down now from the cross, so that we may see and believe. And those who were crucified with Him also heaped abuse on Him.” On the other hand, Luke 23:39–43 recounts how only one criminal reviled Jesus, while the other defended Him and asked to be remembered:

“Then one of the criminals who hung there heaped abuse on Him. ‘Are You not the Christ?’ he said. ‘Save Yourself and us!’ But the other one rebuked him, saying, ‘Do you not even fear God, since you are under the same judgment? We are punished justly, for we are receiving what our actions deserve. But this Man has done nothing wrong.’ Then he said, ‘Jesus, remember me when You come into Your kingdom!’ And Jesus said to him, ‘Truly I tell you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.’”

Analyzing the Apparent Discrepancy

1. Mark’s Account (and similarly Matthew 27:44): These passages indicate that while Jesus was on the cross, both thieves participated in mocking Him. The Greek verb used can suggest repeated action or a general sense of reviling He endured. According to Mark 15:32, “those who were crucified with Him also heaped abuse on Him,” implying both were involved in the insults.

2. Luke’s Account: Luke 23:39–43 provides an expanded glimpse, showing one criminal criticizing Jesus but the other rebuking his fellow criminal and expressing faith in Jesus’ innocence and kingdom. This section highlights a transformation in at least one criminal who then pleads, “Jesus, remember me when You come into Your kingdom!” (Luke 23:42).

Proposed Harmonization

A widely accepted explanation among interpreters is that both thieves initially mocked or derided Jesus, yet over the course of the crucifixion, one of them had a change of heart. Thus, Mark 15 and Matthew 27 describe the initial attitude of both criminals, while Luke highlights the later repentance of one thief. The second thief’s change of heart is often understood to have happened progressively, as he recognized Jesus’ innocence and lordship amid the unfolding events.

Some harmonize these passages by noting how the Gospels often highlight different details that do not necessarily contradict each other but rather draw attention to various aspects of the same event. Since crucifixion could last for several hours, there was ample time for the thieves’ attitudes to shift.

The Heart of Repentance and Mercy

Regardless of the initial mocking, Luke’s account places emphasis on the profound moment of repentance and faith. The second thief acknowledged both his own guilt and Jesus’ righteousness, displaying the essence of genuine contrition. Jesus’ promise in Luke 23:43—“Truly I tell you, today you will be with Me in Paradise”—manifests the immediate mercy offered to this repentant criminal. This shows that no matter how a person begins—whether in unbelief, doubt, or even hostility—it is never too late to turn in faith to Christ.

Broader Theological Reflection

1. Power of Repentance: The crucifixion scene underscores the transformative power of heartfelt repentance. One thief’s interaction with Jesus attests that true faith is not predicated on a life full of works but on sincere trust, even at a moment of great distress.

2. Consistency of Scripture: Though Mark and Luke appear to diverge at first glance, the entire picture provides a deeper narrative. Seemingly conflicting details often reflect complementary perspectives. In this way, Scripture remains consistent when the accounts are read in context.

3. Invitation to All: The story of the penitent thief extends an invitation of hope to everyone. It emphasizes that God’s grace can be found even in one’s final moments. The thief who turned to Jesus recognized both His kingship and the reality of the afterlife, revealing that forgiveness and reconciliation are accessible to all who believe.

Conclusion

From the perspective of Mark 15 and Matthew 27, both thieves initially aligned with the crowd in mocking Jesus. However, Luke 23 details that one thief’s posture of hostility changed into one of humble faith. These passages do not conflict but instead illustrate a process in which one criminal embraced salvation, demonstrating the endless mercy available through Christ. The enduring message is that transformation and forgiveness are freely offered to any who call upon the name of the Lord—even in the darkest hour.