Matthew 27:38 - Then there were two robbers crucified with him, one on his right hand and one on the left.
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What does "Matthew 27:38" mean?
Matthew 27:38, "Then there were two robbers crucified with him, one on his right hand and one on the left," describes the crucifixion of Jesus alongside two other men identified as "robbers" or "bandits." Here's a breakdown of its meaning and significance:
Context: This verse is part of the narrative describing Jesus' crucifixion. Roman crucifixion was a common form of punishment, especially for those deemed criminals or threats to the state.
"Robbers/Bandits": The Greek word used in Matthew (λησταί, lēstai) can be translated as "robbers," "bandits," or even "insurgents." It suggests they were likely involved in some form of criminal activity, possibly involving violence or rebellion against Roman authority. The label doesn't necessarily define the exact nature of their crime, but they were clearly considered outlaws.
Placement: "One on his right hand and one on his left": Crucifying Jesus between two criminals was likely intended to humiliate him and portray him as no different from common criminals. It was meant to diminish his status and mock any claims of kingship or divinity. In this way, the placement was likely part of the humiliation of Jesus.
Fulfillment of Prophecy (Possible Interpretation): Some Christians interpret this verse as a possible fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy, specifically Isaiah 53:12, which states that the Messiah would be "numbered with the transgressors." By being crucified alongside criminals, Jesus was, in a sense, being identified with and treated as a transgressor.
Symbolic Significance: The presence of the two robbers creates a stark contrast. While Jesus was, in Christian belief, innocent and divine, he was being executed alongside guilty criminals. This juxtaposition highlights themes of injustice, suffering, and the paradoxical nature of Jesus' sacrifice. The story of the two crucified robbers also provides an opportunity to examine different responses to Jesus in the face of death.
In summary, Matthew 27:38 describes the historical event of Jesus' crucifixion alongside two criminals. It emphasizes the humiliation and injustice of the event, and can be seen as a potential fulfillment of prophecy, and introduces the narrative of the different reactions to Jesus, even at the moment of death.
Matthew 27:38 - Then there were two robbers crucified with him, one on his right hand and one on the left.
What does "Matthew 27:38" mean?
Matthew 27:38, "Then there were two robbers crucified with him, one on his right hand and one on the left," describes the crucifixion of Jesus alongside two other men identified as "robbers" or "bandits." Here's a breakdown of its meaning and significance:
Context: This verse is part of the narrative describing Jesus' crucifixion. Roman crucifixion was a common form of punishment, especially for those deemed criminals or threats to the state.
"Robbers/Bandits": The Greek word used in Matthew (λησταί, lēstai) can be translated as "robbers," "bandits," or even "insurgents." It suggests they were likely involved in some form of criminal activity, possibly involving violence or rebellion against Roman authority. The label doesn't necessarily define the exact nature of their crime, but they were clearly considered outlaws.
Placement: "One on his right hand and one on his left": Crucifying Jesus between two criminals was likely intended to humiliate him and portray him as no different from common criminals. It was meant to diminish his status and mock any claims of kingship or divinity. In this way, the placement was likely part of the humiliation of Jesus.
Fulfillment of Prophecy (Possible Interpretation): Some Christians interpret this verse as a possible fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy, specifically Isaiah 53:12, which states that the Messiah would be "numbered with the transgressors." By being crucified alongside criminals, Jesus was, in a sense, being identified with and treated as a transgressor.
Symbolic Significance: The presence of the two robbers creates a stark contrast. While Jesus was, in Christian belief, innocent and divine, he was being executed alongside guilty criminals. This juxtaposition highlights themes of injustice, suffering, and the paradoxical nature of Jesus' sacrifice. The story of the two crucified robbers also provides an opportunity to examine different responses to Jesus in the face of death.
In summary, Matthew 27:38 describes the historical event of Jesus' crucifixion alongside two criminals. It emphasizes the humiliation and injustice of the event, and can be seen as a potential fulfillment of prophecy, and introduces the narrative of the different reactions to Jesus, even at the moment of death.