The Thief on the Cross: The Ultimate Guide to Grace at Calvary
The thief on the cross refers to one of the two criminals crucified alongside Jesus Christ. In his final moments, he recognized Jesus as Lord and was promised immediate entry into paradise (Luke 23:39-43), powerfully demonstrating that salvation is a gift of God’s grace through faith, available to anyone at any time, regardless of their past.
Amidst the agony of Golgotha, the Son of God, Jesus Christ, suffered for the sins of humanity. In this darkness, an extraordinary testament to divine grace unfolded. Flanking Jesus were two criminals, justly condemned for their transgressions. In this scene of ultimate sacrifice, the story of the thief on the cross stands as a beacon of hope, revealing God’s limitless mercy. This powerful moment reminds us that the cross is more than a symbol of suffering; it is the definitive declaration of God’s love and the absolute authority of Jesus as Lord and Savior (Philippians 2:9-11).
This poignant encounter, centered on Luke 23:43, showcases the incredible truth of immediate salvation through faith. One of the criminals, recognizing Jesus’ innocence and divine kingship, humbly pleaded, “Jesus, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.” Christ’s response echoed across eternity: “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in paradise” (Luke 23:42-43). This divine promise was not based on works or rituals, but on a simple, heartfelt confession of faith in the dying Messiah.
For believers and seekers alike, the story of the thief on the cross offers a profound glimpse into God’s redemptive plan. It beautifully illustrates the essence of salvation by grace through faith alone, affirming the Bible’s authority and the power of Jesus’ sacrifice. In this guide, we will explore this transformative narrative, unpacking the meaning of Luke 23:43 and what this momentous exchange at Calvary reveals about God’s amazing grace and our eternal hope.
What is the Ultimate Meaning of the Thief on the Cross?
A Picture of God’s amazing grace
The story of the thief on the cross is a profound testament to God’s boundless grace and Jesus’ power to save. Even in His final moments, Jesus offered salvation to a repentant sinner.
This event highlights a core truth of the Gospel: salvation is a gift from God. It is not earned by a lifetime of good deeds but is received through faith in Jesus Christ alone.
Hanging beside Jesus, the penitent thief recognized who He was. The thief made a simple yet powerful plea: “Jesus, remember me when You come into Your kingdom” (Luke 23:42). Jesus responded with immediate assurance, declaring, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise” (Luke 23:43).
This verse powerfully illustrates God’s mercy, showing that His love reaches the most undeserving. It also demonstrates that repentance, even in the final hour, is met with divine acceptance.
Jesus’ promise to the thief shattered conventional expectations and affirmed His lordship over life, death, and eternal paradise. This interaction at Calvary remains a timeless beacon of hope, highlighting the vastness of God’s amazing grace.
The Two Responses to Jesus Christ
The scene at Golgotha presented a stark choice, illustrated by the two criminals crucified alongside Jesus. Their distinct reactions reveal the two fundamental ways people respond to Christ.
- The Unrepentant Thief: One criminal mocked Jesus, challenging Him to save Himself and them (Luke 23:39). Rejecting Jesus’ divine authority, his response reflects a hardened heart that chooses skepticism and defiance over faith.
- The Penitent Thief: In contrast, the other thief rebuked his companion, acknowledging their own guilt and Jesus’ innocence (Luke 23:40-41). He then confessed his faith, appealing to Jesus, “Remember me when You come into Your kingdom” (Luke 23:42). His response embodies genuine repentance and humble faith.
These two men, both facing death, symbolize humanity’s crossroads. Each person must decide how to respond to Jesus: Will we reject Him, or will we humble ourselves and call upon His name?
The salvation of the repentant thief shows that the door to grace remains open until our final breath. This event profoundly demonstrates that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and the only way to eternal life (John 14:6).
His divine mission was to save sinners, and He offers mercy to all who turn to Him in faith. This powerful interaction at the cross affirms Jesus’ identity as Lord and Savior.
What is the story of the two thieves on the cross?
The Setting at Golgotha (Luke 23:33)
The story of the two thieves on the cross unfolds at one of history’s most pivotal moments, taking place at a location known as Golgotha, or “The Place of the Skull.” This was a grim hill outside Jerusalem’s city walls used for public executions. It was here that the Son of God, Jesus Christ, was brutally crucified.
The Romans used crucifixion to execute criminals in a humiliating and agonizing manner. They chose to place Jesus between two common criminals, a decision that fulfilled ancient prophecies. This placement showed His identification with sinners, yet also highlighted His absolute innocence. The Bible paints a clear picture of this somber scene:
- “And when they came to the place that is called The Skull, there they crucified him, and the criminals, one on his right and one on his left.” (Luke 23:33)
This setting is crucial, as it shows Jesus enduring the ultimate shame and suffering. He hung between two representatives of humanity’s sin, yet He remained the spotless Lamb of God.
The Initial Mockery from Both Criminals (Matthew 27:44)
Initially, the atmosphere at Golgotha was thick with scorn and derision. Religious leaders, soldiers, and passersby mocked Jesus, challenging Him to save Himself if He was truly the Son of God. Tragically, even the two criminals crucified alongside Him joined in this chorus of abuse.
With hardened hearts, they faced their own agonizing deaths, yet they chose to insult the innocent man beside them. Scripture makes this clear:
- “And the robbers who were crucified with him also reviled him in the same way.” (Matthew 27:44)
This profound detail highlights the universality of sin and humanity’s rebellion against God. Both men were lost, consumed by despair and anger. They saw Jesus not as a Savior, but as another victim to be scorned.
The Penitent Thief’s Rebuke and Confession (Luke 23:40-41)
As the hours passed, however, a miraculous change occurred in one of the criminals. This man, traditionally known as the “penitent thief,” experienced a profound transformation. He heard Jesus ask for forgiveness for His executioners (Luke 23:34) and witnessed His unwavering dignity amidst unimaginable suffering. This powerful example began to soften the thief’s hardened heart.
He turned to the other criminal, rebuking him sharply. His words revealed a dawning understanding of the truth:
- “But the other rebuked him, saying, ‘Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? And we indeed justly, for we are receiving the due reward of our deeds; but this man has done nothing wrong.'” (Luke 23:40-41)
This penitent thief made three vital declarations:
- Fear of God: He acknowledged God’s authority and judgment, a crucial first step toward repentance.
- Admission of Guilt: He humbly confessed his own sinfulness and the justice of his punishment without making excuses.
- Declaration of Jesus’s Innocence: Most importantly, he recognized Jesus’s absolute blamelessness, understanding that Jesus was not a criminal.
This was more than an observation; it was a profound spiritual awakening in his final moments.
The Humble Plea: ‘Jesus, remember me’ (Luke 23:42)
Having confessed his sin and proclaimed Jesus’s righteousness, the penitent thief turned his gaze to Jesus. His plea was simple yet incredibly powerful, revealing a remarkable depth of faith even amidst excruciating agony. He didn’t ask for earthly relief or an end to his crucifixion. Instead, he sought something far greater:
- “And he said, ‘Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.'” (Luke 23:42)
This humble request reveals several profound aspects of his newfound faith:
- Belief in Jesus’s Kingship: He believed Jesus was a King with a kingdom beyond this world, despite His apparent defeat.
- Trust in Jesus’s Authority: He believed Jesus had the power to “remember” him and grant him entry into that kingdom.
- Desire for Salvation: He sought an eternal, spiritual remembrance rather than a physical rescue.
This pivotal moment, often called the “thief on the cross verse,” sets the stage for one of the most comforting promises in Scripture. It clearly illustrates that true repentance and faith in Christ can lead to immediate grace. The thief, in his last moments, reached out to Jesus, recognizing Him as Lord and Savior.
What is the meaning of Luke 23 39 43?
Breaking Down the ‘Thief on the Cross Verse’
Luke 23:39-43 details one of the most powerful displays of divine grace in the Bible through a profound encounter between Jesus Christ and a dying criminal. This passage, often called the “Thief on the Cross Verse,” offers immense comfort to believers.
The scene unfolds at Golgotha, where Jesus hangs between two criminals condemned for their sins. Initially, both men joined in mocking Jesus (Matthew 27:44), but one of them experienced a radical change of heart.
Recognizing Jesus’s innocence and divine authority, this penitent thief rebuked the other criminal. He said, “Do you not even fear God, since you are under the same condemnation? And we indeed are justly condemned, for we are receiving the due reward of our deeds; but this man has done nothing wrong” (Luke 23:40-41). The thief then turned his heart to the Lord with a simple yet profound plea.
His humble request was, “Jesus, remember me when You come into Your kingdom” (Luke 23:42). This confession reveals true repentance, demonstrating a profound faith in Jesus’s kingship and power and showing an understanding that death was not the end.
The Profound Promise: ‘Today you will be with me in paradise’
Jesus’s response to the penitent thief is a cornerstone of Christian theology. He declared, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise” (Luke 23:43). This statement carries immense weight, revealing several crucial truths about salvation and God’s character.
First, the word “today” emphasizes immediacy. The thief would not face a waiting period or purgation but would instead enter God’s presence immediately. This offers immense hope to all believers. Second, the promise “with Me” underscores the personal nature of salvation, which is about direct companionship with Jesus Himself—the ultimate comfort for a dying soul. Third, the word “Paradise” points to a glorious destination, a place of peace, rest, and blessing that confirms Jesus’s authority over life and death.
This promise beautifully illustrates salvation by grace through faith. The thief had no time for good works and could perform no rituals or religious ceremonies. Therefore, his salvation came solely from his humble faith in Jesus—a gift freely given by our compassionate Savior.
Understanding ‘Paradise’ in a Biblical Context
The term “Paradise” in Jesus’s promise holds significant biblical meaning, signifying not merely a pleasant place but a sacred and blessed realm. The Greek word for paradise, paradeisos (παράδεισος), has ancient roots and originally referred to an enclosed park or garden, often one associated with royalty [1].
In the Old Testament, the Septuagint (the Greek translation) uses paradeisos to refer to the Garden of Eden, God’s original dwelling place with humanity (Genesis 2:8). Consequently, the word evokes images of perfect communion and divine presence. In later Jewish thought, “paradise” also came to represent the part of Hades (Sheol) where the righteous awaited resurrection—a place of comfort separate from torment.
For Christians, “Paradise” became synonymous with being in God’s presence and is often understood as heaven itself. It represents the blissful state believers enter immediately after death. The apostle Paul, for example, speaks of being “caught up into Paradise” (2 Corinthians 12:4), an experience he equates with witnessing inexpressible things. Similarly, the Book of Revelation promises that those who overcome will eat “from the tree of life, which is in the Paradise of God” (Revelation 2:7). This image signifies a restoration to eternal life with God and offers a glorious picture of our ultimate home.
A Look at the Original Greek Wording
Delving into the original Greek of Luke 23:43 deepens our understanding, as the exact wording carries significant theological weight. The verse reads: “Ἀμὴν λέγω σοι, σήμερον μετ’ ἐμοῦ ἔσῃ ἐν τῷ παραδείσῳ.”
Let’s break down key elements:
- Ἀμὴν (Amēn): Translated as “Assuredly” or “Truly,” this is a solemn affirmation Jesus often used to introduce statements of great authority. It underscores the unwavering certainty of His promise, leaving no room for doubt.
- σήμερον (sēmeron): This word means “today.” Its prominent placement in the sentence is critical, emphatically stating that the thief’s entry into Paradise would be immediate. This refutes any idea of a waiting period or intermediate state before entering God’s presence.
- μετ’ ἐμοῦ (met’ emou): Meaning “with Me,” this phrase highlights the personal relationship at the core of the promise. Paradise is not just a location but intimate fellowship with Jesus Christ Himself.
- ἐν τῷ παραδείσῳ (en tō paradeisō): Meaning “in Paradise,” this term signifies a blessed realm of eternal peace and joy in God’s presence, as discussed earlier.
Therefore, the original Greek reinforces the astonishing grace extended to the penitent thief. It confirms the immediate, personal, and blessed destiny awaiting all who place their faith in Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior.
What is the lesson of the two thieves on the cross?
The account of the two thieves crucified with Jesus offers timeless lessons for every believer. Their contrasting responses to Christ powerfully illustrate the nature of grace, faith, and salvation. Through their experiences, we gain deeper insight into God’s redemptive plan.
Lesson 1: Salvation is by Grace Through Faith Alone
The penitent thief is a powerful example of salvation by grace through faith alone. With no time for good deeds or religious rituals, his conversion came in his dying hours. He simply recognized who Jesus was and believed in Christ’s kingdom, even as Jesus appeared defeated on the cross.
This man’s salvation was a free gift from God, not something he earned. The only action he took was to place his trust entirely in Jesus. This affirms what the Bible clearly teaches: “For by grace you have been saved through faith. This is not from yourselves; it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast” (Ephesians 2:8-9). Therefore, salvation depends entirely on faith in Jesus Christ [source: Ligonier Ministries].
- Grace: God’s undeserved favor given freely.
- Faith: Trusting fully in Jesus and His finished work.
- No Works: Our efforts cannot earn salvation.
Lesson 2: It is Never Too Late to Repent and Turn to Christ
The story of the penitent thief offers incredible hope, showing that God’s mercy extends to our final breath. This man, a lifelong criminal, found redemption at the very end of his life. Despite a past of wrongdoing, he turned to Jesus with a humble heart, acknowledging his own sin and Christ’s innocence.
His plea, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom” (Luke 23:42), was a genuine act of repentance. Jesus’s immediate reply—”Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise” (Luke 23:43)—confirms God’s profound willingness to forgive. This powerful exchange reveals a patient God who desires that “none should perish, but that all should reach repentance” (2 Peter 3:9). No matter your past, it is never too late to turn to Jesus, for God always welcomes a repentant heart.
Lesson 3: Works and Rituals Do Not Save Us
The thief on the cross had no opportunity to perform religious works. He could not be baptized, give to the poor, or attend a synagogue. Despite his extreme physical limitations, he was saved. His salvation powerfully refutes the idea that we are saved by human effort or ritual.
His salvation was based solely on his faith in Jesus, not on an ability to perform good deeds. This affirms the vital truth found in Scripture: “He saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy” (Titus 3:5). In God’s sight, even our best works are like “filthy rags” (Isaiah 64:6). This lesson frees us from the burden of trying to earn God’s favor and allows us to rest in the salvation He provides through Christ.
- No Baptism: The thief was not baptized, yet he entered paradise.
- No Good Works: He had no chance to perform deeds of righteousness.
- Only Faith: His salvation rested entirely on his belief in Jesus.
Lesson 4: Jesus Offers Immediate Assurance to Believers
A deeply comforting aspect of this story is Jesus’s direct promise to the thief: “Today you will be with me in paradise” (Luke 23:43). This statement offers immediate assurance of salvation. There was no mention of purgatory or any delay for judgment—only the certainty of instant peace.
This same assurance extends to all who place their faith in Christ. When we believe in Him, we receive the gift of eternal life and are promised a place with Him in heaven. This promise is a cornerstone of Christian faith [source: The Gospel Coalition]. As Jesus Himself said, “Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me… I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also” (John 14:1-3). The thief’s experience confirms that when we turn to Jesus, our eternal home is secure.
Who are the two thieves crucified with Jesus?
What the Bible Tells Us About Them
The Gospels record that Jesus was crucified alongside two criminals, often described as “robbers.” They were not innocent bystanders, and their presence on crosses next to Jesus fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah 53:12.
While the Bible does not name these men or detail their past lives and crimes, the Gospel writers highlight their significant role in the events of the crucifixion.
Here is what the Bible reveals:
- Crucified with Jesus: He was crucified between them (Matthew 27:38, Mark 15:27), a placement that emphasized His perceived status as a common criminal.
- Initial Mockery: At first, both men joined the crowd in ridiculing Jesus. As Matthew 27:44 states, “And the robbers who were crucified with him also reviled him in the same way.”
- A Change of Heart: A dramatic shift occurred when one of the criminals rebuked the other. He acknowledged that they were condemned justly but recognized that Jesus was innocent (Luke 23:40-41).
- The Penitent Thief’s Plea: This repentant man then turned to Jesus and humbly asked, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom” (Luke 23:42).
- Jesus’ Promise of Paradise: Jesus immediately offered him grace, responding, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise” (Luke 23:43). This powerful declaration remains a cornerstone of Christian faith.
Ultimately, the biblical account focuses on their actions and responses to Jesus. Their individual identities are less important than the eternal lesson they provide.
The Traditional Names: Dismas and Gestas
Although the canonical Gospels are silent on their names, early Christian tradition eventually assigned them identities. These names, which are not found in the Bible, emerged from apocryphal texts written centuries later.
The most widely accepted traditional names are:
- Dismas: This name is typically attributed to the penitent thief, the one who repented and received Jesus’ promise of Paradise.
- Gestas: This name refers to the impenitent thief, who continued to mock Jesus until his death.
These names originate from sources such as the apocryphal Gospel of Nicodemus (also known as the Acts of Pilate), dating back to the 4th century [2]. While these traditions offer interesting insights into historical Christian thought, it is vital to remember they are extra-biblical and do not hold the same authority as the Holy Bible.
The tradition surrounding Dismas highlights the theme of last-minute repentance and divine mercy. In some denominations, he is even revered as Saint Dismas, the patron saint of prisoners. His story serves as a powerful reminder that God’s grace is available to anyone, even in their final moments. However, faith must ultimately rest on the biblical declaration of Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, not on extra-biblical tradition.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Thief on the Cross
Did the robber on the cross repent?
Absolutely. The robber on the cross demonstrated clear and heartfelt repentance, and his transformation at Calvary is a profound testament to God’s boundless grace.
Initially, both criminals crucified alongside Jesus mocked Him (Matthew 27:44). However, one of them experienced a radical change of heart. Luke’s Gospel records his powerful confession (Luke 23:40-41), in which he:
- First, rebuked the other criminal for his lack of reverence, asking, “Do you not even fear God?”
- Next, acknowledged his own guilt and just punishment, stating that they were “receiving what we deserve for our deeds.”
- Finally, affirmed Jesus’ innocence, declaring, “But this Man has done nothing wrong.”
Furthermore, his plea, “Jesus, remember me when You come into Your kingdom” (Luke 23:42), revealed a deep faith in Christ’s divine authority. This was not a mere acknowledgment of a prophet, but a confession of Jesus as a King with a kingdom yet to come.
These words demonstrate a clear turning from sin and toward God in faith—the very essence of true repentance.
Was the thief on the cross baptized?
The Bible does not record that the thief on the cross was baptized. In fact, his situation made traditional water baptism impossible.
However, the absence of baptism did not prevent his salvation, as he received the immediate promise of paradise from Jesus. This powerful narrative underscores a fundamental truth of the Gospel:
- Salvation is by grace alone.
- It is through faith alone.
- It is in Christ alone.
As Ephesians 2:8-9 clearly states, “For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast.”
Baptism is an important act of obedience and a public declaration of faith for believers, but it is not a prerequisite for salvation itself. The thief’s experience beautifully illustrates that God’s free grace is given to those who genuinely believe and repent, regardless of their circumstances or ability to perform religious rituals.
Jesus’ words—”Today you will be with Me in Paradise” (Luke 23:43)—affirm that the thief’s faith was sufficient for immediate entrance into God’s presence.
Did the thief on the cross go to heaven?
Yes, absolutely. Jesus Himself gave the thief unfailing assurance of eternal life when He promised, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise” (Luke 23:43).
This definitive promise from our Lord Jesus Christ is key. “Paradise” in this context refers to the spiritual realm where righteous souls reside with God as they await the resurrection. Therefore, Jesus’ promise meant the thief would immediately enter His blessed and direct presence.
The thief’s journey from a condemned criminal to a recipient of divine grace in his final moments is a cornerstone of Christian teaching. It confirms that:
- Jesus has the authority to grant salvation.
- Faith and repentance, even at the very last moment of life, are sufficient for salvation.
- God’s mercy is profound and available to all who call upon His name.
This encounter offers immense encouragement, proving that no one is beyond the reach of God’s saving grace. Furthermore, it reminds us of Jesus’ sovereignty even in His suffering, as He was able to offer eternal hope to a dying man.
Why is Dismas a saint in some traditions?
The name “Dismas” for the penitent thief is not found in the biblical accounts. The Gospels simply refer to him as one of the two criminals crucified alongside Jesus.
However, the names Dismas and Gestas (for the impenitent thief) originate from early Christian apocryphal texts, such as the 4th-century Gospel of Nicodemus, also known as the Acts of Pilate. These ancient writings aimed to provide details beyond what is found in the canonical scriptures.
In traditions such as Roman Catholicism and Eastern Orthodoxy, the penitent thief is revered as Saint Dismas, often called the “Good Thief.”
The reason for his veneration stems directly from the biblical narrative:
- His Repentance: He publicly acknowledged his sin and Jesus’ innocence.
- His Faith: He confessed Jesus as King and asked to be remembered in His kingdom.
- Jesus’ Promise: He received the direct assurance of salvation from Jesus Himself: “Today you will be with me in Paradise.”
These actions, coupled with Jesus’ response, are seen as powerful evidence of his sanctity, making him an exemplary model of repentance and faith. While Protestants do not venerate saints in the same way, the penitent thief’s story remains a vital illustration of grace across all Christian denominations. [3]
While traditions can enrich our understanding, God’s inspired Word is paramount. The Holy Bible remains the ultimate and authoritative source of truth for Christian faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.
The Unfailing Hope of the Cross
The story of the thief on the cross is a powerful beacon of God’s limitless grace, offering immense comfort. It shows that even at the brink of death, salvation can be offered and received, providing profound hope for all who believe.
The words of Jesus in Luke 23:43 carry a timeless message. To the penitent thief, He declared, “Today you will be with me in paradise.” This statement is more than a future promise; it is an immediate assurance of salvation. It powerfully confirms that genuine faith is effective, even in life’s final moments.
This account from the cross underscores several core truths:
- God’s Mercy is Unending: No sin is too great to be forgiven when met with true repentance. The thief’s past did not disqualify him from receiving God’s grace.
- Salvation is Immediate: For those who trust in Christ, there are no delays. The assurance of eternal life begins at the moment of genuine faith.
- Faith Alone Justifies: The thief had no opportunity for good works or religious rituals. His salvation came through simple, heartfelt faith in Jesus, as Ephesians 2:8-9 teaches.
Therefore, the cross is far more than a symbol of suffering—it is the ultimate display of divine love. It reveals Jesus as the Son of God who came to die for our sins. His resurrection three days later conquered death forever, a victory that guarantees eternal life for all who believe.
The unfailing hope of the cross is accessible to everyone, especially those who feel they are beyond redemption or seek a fresh start. Jesus extends this same invitation today, asking us to turn to Him in faith just as the thief on the cross did. This powerful story affirms that it is never too late to accept God’s grace and receive the enduring promise of eternal life.