Luke 23:32
And there were also two other, malefactors, led with him to be put to death.
Original Language Analysis
Cross References
Historical Context
Roman crucifixion typically punished slaves, violent criminals, and insurrectionists—the lowest elements of society. Cicero called it "the most cruel and disgusting penalty" (crudelissimum taeterrimumque supplicium), forbidden for Roman citizens. Mass crucifixions were common—Josephus records that during the siege of Jerusalem, Romans crucified up to 500 Jews daily, running out of wood for crosses.
The practice of crucifying multiple criminals simultaneously served both practical efficiency and psychological impact. Displaying numerous executions along major roads maximized deterrent effect. That Jesus was crucified between two criminals suggests Roman authorities grouped Him with insurrectionists, possibly because the charge against Him was claiming to be "King of the Jews"—perceived political sedition. This detail, recorded by all four Gospels, emphasizes both the historical reality of Christ's degradation and the prophetic fulfillment of Isaiah 53.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Jesus being "numbered with the transgressors" demonstrate the depths of humiliation He endured for our redemption?
- What does the contrasting eternal destiny of the two criminals teach about proximity to Christ versus faith in Christ?
- How should knowing that Jesus descended to share the fate of condemned criminals encourage those who feel too sinful for God's grace?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
And there were also two other, malefactors, led with him to be put to death. The term "malefactors" (kakourgoi, κακοῦργοι) means "evil-doers" or "criminals," likely bandits or insurrectionists. The word appears only here and in Luke 23:33, 39, emphasizing their genuine guilt in contrast to Jesus' innocence. Their crucifixion with Christ fulfilled Isaiah 53:12: "He was numbered with the transgressors" (kai meta anomōn elogisthē, καὶ μετὰ ἀνόμων ἐλογίσθη).
The phrase "led with him" (syn auto, σὺν αὐτῷ) indicates physical proximity and shared fate, yet eternal distinction. All three bore crosses to Golgotha, all three were crucified, all three suffered Roman execution. But one criminal repented and heard, "To day shalt thou be with me in paradise" (v. 43), while the other died in his sins. Physical proximity to Christ guarantees nothing; only faith in Him saves. Judas walked with Jesus for three years yet perished; the repentant thief spent hours with Him and entered paradise.
This scene demonstrates the gospel's offensive scandal—the sinless Son of God executed among common criminals, sharing their shame and agony. Yet this very scandal reveals grace's accessibility. Christ descended to the lowest place—numbered with transgressors, condemned among the condemned—so that even the worst sinners might find salvation. The cross levels all humanity: guilty criminals and the innocent Christ crucified together, yet only faith distinguishes their eternal destiny.