The Crucifixion

The Crucifixion

Q: Who was crucified at the same time as Jesus?

• a. a murderer
• b. two thieves
• c. no one

Jesus was taken to a place outside the city gate known as Golgotha, or Calvary, to be crucified. Jesus was not alone on Calvary the day of his crucifixion. There were two criminals, one on each side of Jesus, being crucified also.

The two criminals responded differently to Jesus. One of them mocked Jesus, saying, “So you’re the Messiah, are you? Prove it by saving yourself—and us, too, while you’re at it!” The man didn’t believe that Jesus was the Son of God who chose to die to save people from their sins even though he had power to save himself.

The other criminal understood who Jesus was and rebuked the first criminal: “Don’t you fear God even when you have been sentenced to die? We deserve to die for our crimes, but this man hasn’t done anything wrong.” He turned to Jesus and said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your Kingdom.”

Jesus saw that the man believed and told him, “I assure you, today you will be with me in paradise.”

One criminal believed, and one didn’t. One was promised eternal life in heaven, and the other wasn’t. Everyone still faces the same choice today—believe in Jesus and receive eternal life, or reject him. It’s sad that many refuse to see that Jesus is the Savior and never turn to him for salvation.

For You

If you’ve already made the choice to accept Jesus as your Savior, share that decision with someone who needs to hear about it. If you haven’t accepted Jesus as your Savior, talk to your parents or pastor about it today. Don’t put it off.

Answer: b

Two others, both criminals, were led out to be executed with [Jesus]. When they came to a place called The Skull, they nailed him to the cross. And the criminals were also crucified—one on his right and one on his left.   Luke 23:32-33

(The Whole Story: Matthew 27:33-38; Mark 15:22-27; Luke 23:32-43; John 19:17-18)