Who Was Crucified Alongside Jesus

The Two Men Crucified Next To Jesus Were

According to the Gospel of Luke, two additional men were crucified with Our Blessed Lord, one on either side of Him, and both died at the hands of the Romans. Traditionally, the thief to Christ’s right has been referred to as the “Good Thief,” while the thief to Christ’s left has been dubbed the “Unrepentant Thief.” While the names of the Good Thief and the Unrepentant Thief are not mentioned in the Gospels, legend claims that the one was named Saint Dismas and the latter, Gestas. Despite the fact that both men were subjected to the same brutal death and were both in the presence of Christ, their attitudes to their circumstances were vastly different.

Dismas, on the other hand, does not request that he be removed from power.

Rather, he begs to be brought up into the presence of Christ, pleading, “Jesus, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.” (Matthew 23:42) St.

Which of these two is the most like you?

To help you accept the crosses that you will carry in this life, and to set your heart on Heaven in the next life, the Norbertine Fathers of Saint Michael’s Abbey would like to give you a FREE Saint Dismas prayer card, so that you may seek the intercession of the Good Thief. To download the free prayer card, just click the button below.

Download the Saint Dismas Prayer Card for free here.

Immersed in the 900-year tradition of our order, the Norbertine Fathers live a monastic common life of liturgical prayer and care for souls. Our abbey in Orange County consists of nearly fifty priests and thirty seminarians studying for the priesthood.

St. Michael’s Abbey is celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2017.

Penitent thief – Wikipedia

SaintDismas the Good Thief
Russian Icon of the Good Thief in Paradise by Moscow school,c.1560
First Saint, Penitent Thief, Good Thief, The Good Thief on the Cross
Born Galilee,Kingdom of Judea,Roman Empire
Died c. 30–33 ADGolgotha HilloutsideJerusalem,Judea,Roman Empire(todayIsrael)
Venerated in Eastern Orthodox ChurchCatholic Church
Canonized c. 30–33 AD,Golgotha HilloutsideJerusalembyJesus Christ
Majorshrine Church of Saint Dismas the Good Thief,Dannemora,New York,United States
Feast 25 March (Roman Catholic) Good Friday (Eastern Orthodox)
Attributes Wearing aloinclothand either holding his cross or being crucified; sometimes depicted inParadise.
Patronage Prisoners(especiallycondemned)Funeral directorsRepentant thievesMerizo, GuamSan Dimas,Mexico

He is one of two unidentified thieves who appear in Luke’s account of Jesus’ crucifixion in the New Testament. He is also referred to as theGood Thief, the Wise Thief, and the Grateful Thief for the Thief on the Cross for his service to Jesus. His request to Jesus, according to the Gospel of Luke, is for Jesus to “remember him” when he comes in this kingdom. The other, in the role of the repentant thief, challenges Jesus to rescue himself and to demonstrate to both of them that he is the Messiah, which he does.

Because of the old Christian tradition that Christ (and the penitent thief) were crucified and died exactly on the anniversary of Christ’s incarnation, the Roman Martyrology sets his memorial on March 25, along with the Feast of the Annunciation.

In the Gospel of Nicodemus, he is given the nameDismas, and he is also known as Saint Dismas in Catholicism, according to tradition (sometimesDysmas; in Spanish and Portuguese,Dimas). Various names have been granted by other traditions:

  • In the Coptic Orthodox tradition and theNarrative of Joseph of Arimathea, he is referred to as Demas
  • In the Codex Colbertinus, he is referred to as ZoathamorZoathan
  • And in the Gospel of Thomas, he is referred to as Demas. Titus is his given name in the Arabic Infancy Gospel. The name Rakh (Russian: аx) is given to him in the Russian Orthodox faith.

Gospel of Luke

The Icon of the Russian Orthodox Church The Good Thief in Paradise, a painting from the 16th century in Rostov, Russia’s Kremlin. Jesus was crucified beside two other men, one on his right and one on his left, which the Gospel of Mark interprets as a fulfillment of the prophesy of Isaiah 53:12 (see Isaiah 53:12 for more information) (“And he was numbered with the transgressors”). In the Gospels of Matthew and Mark, both of the thieves made fun of Jesus; Luke, on the other hand, records:39Now one of the convicts who was hanging there ridiculed Jesus, asking, “Is it possible that you are not the Messiah?

Indeed, we were found guilty and sentenced appropriately, as the punishment we suffered was proportionate to our misdeeds; nevertheless, this man has committed no crime.” He then said to Jesus, “Remember me when you come into your kingdom,” which he did.

It has been proposed by Augustine of Hippos that the writers of Mark and Matthew used a figure of speech in order to make their writings more concise.

In later commentaries, such asFrederic Farrar’s, the distinction between the Greek terms used is highlighted: “The two earliest Synoptists inform us that both the robbers reproachedJesus (v), yet we learn from St Luke that only one of them used harmful and insulting language against Him (v).”

“Amen. today. in paradise”

The Russian Orthodoxicon is a representation of Christ. Rostov’s Kremlin is home to a painting by the 16th century artist The Good Thief in Paradise. Jesus was crucified beside two other men, one on his right and one on his left, which the Gospel of Mark interprets as a fulfillment of the prophesy of Isaiah 53:12 (see Isaiah 53:12 in the Bible) (“And he was numbered with the transgressors”). In the Gospels of Matthew and Mark, both of the thieves made fun of Jesus; Luke, on the other hand, says:39Now one of the prisoners who was hanging there ridiculed Jesus, saying, “Jesus is a fool.” “Why don’t you proclaim yourself to be the Christ?

Indeed, we were found guilty and sentenced appropriately, as the punishment we suffered was proportionate to our misdeeds; nevertheless, this individual has committed no crime.” ‘Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom,’ he added at that point.

The apparent conflict between Luke’s narrative and those of Mark and Matthew has been the subject of several attempts to resolve the situation.

The plural was used in place of the singular.

Unnamed

Only one of the offenders is described as repentant in the Gospel of Luke, and that person is not identified in the gospel. Augustine of Hippodoes certainly not identify the thief, but he speculates that he may have been baptized at some point in the past. Traditional accounts have Jesus crucified on his right, while the other thief was crucified to his left, with the Good Thief to Jesus’ right. As a result, portrayals of Jesus’ crucifixion frequently depict Jesus’ head cocked to the right, indicating his acceptance of the Good Thief’s offer.

The footrest is tilted, with one footrest pointing up towards the Good Thief and the other footrest pointing down towards the Other Thief.

‘He was guilty of blood, even his brother’s blood,’ according to Pope Gregory I.

Named

An early Greek recension of the Acta Pilatiand the LatinGospel of Nicodemus, elements of which may be dated to the late fourth century, gave the name Dismas to Luke’s unidentified repentant thief, who was afterwards given the name Dismas in the Acta Pilati and the LatinGospel of Nicodemus. It’s possible that the name “Dismas” was derived from a Greek word that meant “sunset” or “death.” Likewise, Gestas is the given name of the other thief. The thief addressed Jesus the child in the Syrian Infancy Gospel’s Life of the Good Thief (Histoire du Bon Larron, French 1868, English 1882), according to Augustine of Hippo: “O most blessed of children, if ever there should come a day when I should crave Thy Mercy, remember me and forget not what has passed this day.” The Holy Family was described as “exhausted and powerless” by Anne Catherine Emmerich; according to Augustine of Hippo and Peter Damian, the Holy Family encountered Dismas in similar conditions.

This Homily on the Crucifixion and the Good Thief by Pope Theophilus of Alexandria (385–412), which is considered a masterpiece of Coptic literature, was written between 385 and 412.

“Demas”

He is known by the name Demas in Coptic Orthodoxy. Joseph of Arimathea is the name that is given to him in the Biblical story of Joseph of Arimathea.

“Titus”

The legend is spurious. The Syriac Infancy Gospel refers to the two thieves as Titus and Dumachus, and it includes a story of how Titus (the good one) prevented the other criminals in his company from stealing Mary and Joseph as they were on their way to Egypt.

“Rakh”

As is customary in Russian folklore, the name of the Good Thief is “Rakh” (Russian: аx).

Sainthood

On the 25th of March, the Catholic Church commemorates the Good Thief. The following item is found in the Roman Martyrology: “Commemoration of the holy thief in Jerusalem who confessed to Christ and was canonized by Jesus himself on the cross at that moment and merited to hear from him: ‘Today you will be with me in Paradise.’ ” A number of localities, including San Dimas, California, are named after him, including the city of San Diego. Also named after him are parish churches, such as the Church of the Good Thief inKingston, Ontario, Canada, which was built by convicts from the nearbyKingston Penitentiary, Saint Dismas Church inWaukegan, Illinois, theOld CatholicParish of St Dismas in Coseley, and the Church of St.

In his honor, TheSynaxarionoffers the following couplet: Eden’s closed gates have been opened wide by the Thief, who has placed the key in the lock and said, “Remember me.” “I will not speak of Thy Mystery to Thine adversaries, nor will I kiss Thee like Judas; but like the thief, I will confess Thee: Remember me, O Lord, in Thy Kingdom,” says a traditional Eastern Orthodox prayer spoken before taking the Eucharist.

Art

Today, March 25, is the feast day of St. Vincent de Paul, who is also known as the Good Thief. The following item is found in the Roman Martyrology: “Commemoration of the holy thief in Jerusalem who confessed to Christ and was canonized by Jesus himself on the cross at that moment, and merited to hear from him: ‘Today you will be with me in Paradise.'” There are a number of communities in California that have been named after him, including San Dimas, California. Also named after him are parish churches, such as the Church of the Good Thief inKingston, Ontario, Canada, which was built by convicts from the nearbyKingston Penitentiary, Saint Dismas Church inWaukegan, Illinois, theOld CatholicParish of St Dismas in Coseley, and the Church of St.

On Good Friday, he is commemorated alongside the crucifixion in the Eastern Orthodox Church.

In popular culture

On the 25th of March, the Catholic Church commemorates the life of the Good Thief. “Commemoration of the holy thief in Jerusalem who confessed to Christ and was canonized by Jesus himself on the cross at that moment and merited to hear from him: ‘Today you will be with me in Paradise,'” according to the Roman Martyrology. A number of cities, notably San Dimas, California, bear his name. Also named after him are parish churches, such as the Church of the Good Thief in Kingston, Ontario, Canada, which was built by convicts from the nearbyKingston Penitentiary, Saint Dismas Church in Waukegan, Illinois, theOld CatholicParish of St Dismas in Coseley, and the Church of St.

The Eastern Orthodox Church commemorates him on Good Friday, along with the commemoration of the crucifixion.

See also

  • The Good Thief is commemorated on March 25 by the Catholic Church. The following item is found in the Roman Martyrology: “Commemoration of the holy thief in Jerusalem who confessed to Christ and was canonized by Jesus himself on the cross at that moment and merited to hear from him: ‘Today you will be with me in Paradise.'” A number of communities, including San Dimas, California, are named after him. Also named after him are parish churches, such as the Church of the Good Thief inKingston, Ontario, Canada, which was built by convicts from the nearbyKingston Penitentiary, Saint Dismas Church inWaukegan, Illinois, theOld CatholicParish of St Dismas in Coseley, and the Church of St. Dismas, the Good Thief, a Catholic church at the Clinton Correctional Facility in Dannemora, New York. On Good Friday, the Eastern Orthodox Church honors him, as well as the crucifixion, which took place that day. In his honor, TheSynaxarion presents the following couplet: Eden’s closed gates have been opened wide by the Thief, who has placed a key in the lock and said, “Remember me.” He is memorialized in a traditional Eastern Orthodox prayer performed before taking the Eucharist: “I will not tell of Thy Mystery to Thine adversaries, nor will I kiss Thee as Judas did
  • But I will confess Thee as the thief: Remember me, O Lord, in Thy Kingdom.”

References

  1. “Saint Dismas – Saint Dismas”
  2. “Holweck, Frederick George” (Saint Dismas – Saint Dismas)
  3. (1907). “Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary” is the name of the celebration. According to Charles Herbermann (ed.). Vol. 1 of the Catholic Encyclopedia. Robert Appleton Company, New York, New York
  4. AbLawrence Cunningham, A quick history of saints(2005), page 32
  5. AbGabra, Gawdat, a brief history of saints(2005), page 32
  6. (2009). The Coptic Church’s alphabetical index. abEhrman, Bart
  7. Plese, Zlatko. Lanham, MD: Scarecrow Press, p. 120. ISBN 9780810870574
  8. AbEhrman, Bart
  9. Plese, Zlatko (2011). In this volume, you will find both the texts of the Apocryphal Gospels and translations into English. Oxford University Press, New York, p.582, ISBN 9780199732104, p.582. a guy by the name of Demas
  10. Bruce M. Metzger and Bart D. Ehrman are two of the most well-known names in the world of sports (2005). The Transmission, Corruption, and Restoration of the Text of the New Testament (4th ed.). Oxford: Oxford University Press, p.270, ISBN 978-019-516667-5
  11. “Ante-Nicene Fathers/Volume VIII/Apocrypha of the New Testament/The Arabic Gospel of the Infancy of the Saviour” (Ante-Nicene Fathers/Volume VIII/Apocrypha of the New Testament/The Arabic Gospel of the Infancy of the Saviour). Wikisource, accessed April 19, 2009. retrieved on the 28th of December, 2021
  12. Renate Gerstenlauer’s book, The Rakh Icon: Discovery of its True Identity, was published by Legat Verlag in 2009, and is available online (ISBN978-3932942358). Citation found at “Who Is the Repentant Thief?” Icons and their interpretations are discussed. The 17th of December, 2011. 26 April 2014
  13. Matthew 27:38
  14. Mark 15:27–28,32
  15. Luke 23:33
  16. John 19:18
  17. Isaiah 53:12
  18. Matthew 27:44
  19. Mark 15:32
  20. Luke 23:39–43
  21. Dods, Marcus, ed. 26 April 2014
  22. (1873). “The Harmony of the Evangelists” is the title of this piece. The Works of Aurelius Augustine, Vol. 8 (The Works of Aurelius Augustine). Salmond, S. D. S., ed., Edinburgh: T.T. Clark, p. 430–1
  23. Ferrar, F. W., ed., Edinburgh: T.T. Clark, p. 430–1. (1891). The Gospel According to St. Luke is a collection of stories about the life and times of St. Luke. The Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges is a comprehensive resource for educators. C. J. Clay and Sons, p. 351
  24. London: C. J. Clay and Sons
  25. The Greek New Testament according to SBL. According to version=SBLGNT, the following is cited: Bruce M. Metzger is the author of this work (2006). The Greek New Testament: A Textual Commentary on the Text Hendrickson Publishers Marketing, LLC.ISBN978-1-59856-164-7
  26. AbcThe Life of the Good Thief, Msgr. Gaume, Loreto Publications, 1868 2003
  27. AbcCatholic Family News, April 2006
  28. AbcChristian Order, April 2007
  29. AbcCatholic Family News, April 2007
  30. Ab Stanley E. Porter and Anthony R. Cross are co-authors of the book Biblical and theological studies on the various dimensions of baptism Page 264 of 2002 “It is interesting to note, in this connection, that in his Retractions, Augustine wondered whether the thief had not in fact been baptized at some earlier point (2.18).”
  31. TAN Books, 1970, No.2229)/No.0107, The Life of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from the Visions of Ven.Anne Catherine Emmerich
  32. Clark, John, The Life of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from the Visions of Ven.Anne Catherine Emmerich, TAN Books (2015-04-03). Saint Dismas Demonstrates That It’s Never Too Late to Be Canonized from the Cross” Seton Magazine is a publication dedicated to the education of young people. Retrieved2020-03-01
  33. s^ Before and after Holy Communion, there are several common prayers. oca.org
  34. s^ The following is the hymn’s words (in English translation): “O Lord, in a single instant, Thou transformed the Wise Thief into someone deserving of Paradise. I pray that the wood of thy Cross would enlighten and rescue me as well “
  35. Razboinika blagorazumnago (The Wise Thief), composed by Pavel Chesnokov, is one of the most well-known renditions of the hymn. Samuel Beckett is a playwright who lives in New York City. The Complete Dramatic Works is a collection of plays written by Shakespeare. p. 15
  36. FaberFaber
  37. P. 15
  38. Sydney Carter’s obituary appeared in the Daily Telegraph on March 16, 2004
  39. “Stelio Savante Receives Award of Merit for ONCE WE WERE SLAVES” appeared in the Daily Telegraph on March 16, 2004
  40. And “Once We Were Slaves” appeared in the Daily Telegraph on March 16, 2004.
See also:  Who Did Jesus Hang Out With

External links

  • The following works are by Holweck, Frederick George: “Saint Dismas – Saint Dismas”
  • (1907). “Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary” is the name of the holiday celebrated on December 25th. It is written by Charles Herbermann (ed.). 1st edition of the Catholic Encyclopedia Robert Appleton Company, New York, New York. In Lawrence Cunningham’s A brief history of saints (2005, page 32), the saints are referred to as “abra, Gawdat,” which means “abrasion” (2009). The Coptic Church from A to Z is presented here. Scarecrow Press, Lanham, Maryland, p. 120, ISBN 9780810870574
  • AbEhrman, Bart
  • Plese, Zlatko
  • Plese, Zlatko (2011). Texts and translations of the Apocryphal Gospels. It is published by Oxford University Press and has a page count of 582 and ISBN 9780199732104. an individual by the name of Demas Bruce M. Metzger and Bart D. Ehrman are two of the most well-known names in the field of computer science (2005). The Text of the New Testament: Its Transmission, Its Corruption, and Its Restoration (4th ed.). An introduction to the Ante-Nicene Fathers, Volume VIII, Apocrypha of the New Testament, and the Arabic Gospel of the Infancy of the Saviour. Oxford: Oxford University Press, p.270, ISBN 978-019-516667-5
  • “The Ante-Nicene Fathers/Volume VIII/Apocrypha of the New Testament/The Arabic Gospel of the Infancy of the Saviour.” As of the 19th of April, 2009, Wikisource has this to say: On the 28th of December, 2021, it was discovered that Renate Gerstenlauer’s book, The Rakh Icon: Discovery of its True Identity, was published by Legat Verlag in 2009, and is available in English (ISBN978-3932942358). In “The Repentant Thief Who?” it is said that On the meaning of icons and how they are interpreted on December 17, 2011, the 17th day of the year 2011. Jesus Christ is the Son of God (Matthew 27:38)
  • Mark 15:27–28,32
  • Luke 23:33–18
  • John 19:18
  • Isaiah 53:12
  • Matthew 27:44
  • Mark 15:32
  • Luke 23:39–43
  • Dods, Marcus, ed (1873). This piece is titled “The Harmony of the Evangelicists.” Vol. 8 of Aurelius Augustine’s Works is a collection of his writings. T.T. Clark, Edinburgh. p. 430–1
  • Ferrar, F. W., Edinburgh. p. 430–1
  • Salmond, S. D. S. (1891). According to St. Luke, the Gospel is a collection of stories about a man who was born in a cave. The Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges is a comprehensive resource for educators and students in the Cambridge area. C. J. Clay and Sons, p. 351
  • London: C. J. Clay and Sons. A New Testament in Greek written in the Standard Biblical Literature (SBL). In accordance with version=SBLGNT, the following is mentioned: Bruce M. Metzger is a professor of English at the University of Washington (2006). On the Greek New Testament, a textual commentary. Msgr. Gaume’s Life of the Good Thief, published by Loreto Publications in 2003, ISBN 978-1-59856-164-7
  • AbcCatholic Family News (April 2006)
  • AbcChristian Order (April 2007)
  • AbcCatholic Family Anthony R. Cross and Stanley E. Porter Biblical and theological studies on the various dimensions of baptism. Page 264 of 2002. In this connection, it is interesting to note that, in his Retractions, Augustine wondered whether the thief had not already been baptized at some point (2.18).”
  • TAN Books, 1970, No.2229)/(No.0107)
  • Clark, John, The Life of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from the Visions of Ven.Anne Catherine Emmerich, TAN Books, 1970, No.2229/(No.0107)
  • Clark, John, The Life of the Blessed Virgin Mary (2015-04-03). Saint Dismas Demonstrates That It’s Never Too Late to Be Canonized from the Cross Seton Magazine is a publication dedicated to the study of the Catholic Church in the United States. Retrieved2020-03-01
  • s^ Prior to and after Holy Communion, there are some common prayers that people say.” oca.org
  • s^ In English, here is the hymn’s text as it was originally sung: “O Lord, in a single instant, Thou transformed the Wise Thief into a worthy recipient of Paradise’s bounty. Please illumine and save me through the wood of thy Cross “as well as, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and Razboinika blagorazumnago (The Wise Thief), composed by Pavel Chesnokov, is one of the most well-known versions of the hymn. Samuel Beckett is a playwright and author who lives in New York City. All of Shakespeare’s Dramatic Works are available in one volume. p. 15
  • FaberFaber
  • P. On March 16, 2004, the Daily Telegraph published an obituary for Sydney Carter, as well as the following: “Stelio Savante Receives Award of Merit for ONCE WE WERE SLAVES”
  • And “Stelio Savante Receives Award of Merit for ONCE WE WERE SLAVES”

Dimas and Gestas: Bandits Crucified with Christ

History of the Ancients Stephen Basdeo contributed to this article. Banditry and outlawry always thrive in areas where the state is weak and/or reluctant to enforce its laws, and this is true everywhere. In this regard, medieval England stands out as a particularly instructive case study, and it is at this era that the legend of Robin Hood initially emerges, as evidenced by William Langland’s allusions to “rymes of Robyn Hode” in The Vision of Piers the Plowman (c. 1377). To take you even further back in time than the medieval period and into the ancient world, to a time when the Roman Empire ruled Europe and the Near East, and a young, upstart religious leader was causing a commotion in the relatively backward province of Judea, allow me to take you even further back in time.

After then, Jesus was commanded to carry his cross to Calvary, where he would be crucified on the cross (there are very few historians who doubt that Jesus actually existed, but of course, whether one believes he was the Son of God or not is entirely a matter of faith and, thankfully, not a subject which this website deals with).

  1. However, Jesus was not the only one to be crucified on that particular day.
  2. One felt Jesus was completely innocent of any crime, while the other threw Jesus under the bus: Several of the prisoners who were hanging there threw obscenities at Jesus, including: “Aren’t you the Messiah?” “Save yourself as well as us!” The other criminal, on the other hand, scolded him.
  3. We are being punished fairly, since we are receiving the consequences of our actions.
  4. We know very little about the two thieves from the four canonical gospels, Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, and much less about the two thieves from the New Testament.
  5. The fact that they were not just small thieves, as conveyed by many recent English translations that simply use the words “thief” or “criminal,” is unquestionable.
  6. Historians largely agree that these punishments were very consistent across the Roman Empire, according to the evidence.
  7. (c) B.

Shaw is an American author and poet.

D.

In fact, this passage is translated as ‘bandits’ by Shaw in his article ‘Bandits in the Roman Empire’, which uses the term “bandits” to refer to the men who committed the crime.

Additionally, Roman troops were not only instruments of conquest but also offered a primitive form of police, acting as investigators, law enforcers, torturers, executioners, and gaolers in addition to their conquest-related duties.

Numerous laws were created to encourage local people (whom the Roman authorities knew would frequently give tacit consent to the conduct of bandits) to betray them in exchange for a reward, as a result of this.

Ancient Roman bandits were a different breed of criminal from the rest of society.

judgment against them was declared on the spot).

It has long been held up by Christian scholars as an example of the savagery with which the Romans punished Christ, but crucifixion was actually a relatively uncommon punishment in the Roman Empire, which further suggests that the men crucified alongside Jesus were not simply common thieves, but bandits or brigands.

  1. This was also true of bandits in pre-modern societies, as demonstrated by the author’s research.
  2. That Dimas and Gestas were actually revolutionary is beside the issue; the fact remains that such highway robberies were deemed subversive and dangerous enough by the Roman authorities to merit the most brutal form of execution available: crucifixion.
  3. It was the most dangerous to go on country roads from town to town because of the possibility of coming into touch with bandits.
  4. Another indication of the widespread presence of bandits in Roman society is the fact that the phrase “killed by bandits” occurs on the graves of numerous prominent Roman individuals.
  5. Several sources are cited.
  6. When it comes to baptism and the crucifixion, James D.
  7. Dunn writes on page 339 of his book, Jesus Remembered, that “these two realities in Jesus’ life compel virtually universal acquiescence.” (Grand Rapids, MI: William B.
  8. 4-52.
  9. D Shaw’s “Bandits in the Roman Empire,” Past and Present, 105 (1984).
  10. 4).
  11. Fuhrmann, Policing the Roman Empire: Soldiers, Administration, and Public Order) (Oxford: OUP, 2011) Bandits in the Roman Empire: Myth and Reality (Thomas Grunewald, Bandits in the Roman Empire: Myth and Reality) J.

Hone, 1820) Tags:Ancient History/Ancient Rome/Antiquity/Apocrypha/bandits/Bible/Bible Times/crime/Crime History/criminals/Bible/Bible Times/crime/Crime History/criminals/Cross/Crucifixion/Gospels/History/Jesus/New Testament/Stephen Basdeo This entry was posted in: Ancient Rome, antiquity, bandits, BIBLE, BRIGADES, CRUCIFIXION, DIMAS, GESTAS, Jesus Christ, New Testament.

Who Were the Two Criminals Hanging Next to Jesus?

History from the past Stephen Basdeo contributed to this report. A state’s inability or unwillingness to enforce its laws always allows for the flourishing of banditry and outlawry to occur. In this regard, medieval England stands out as a particularly instructive case study, and it is at this era that the legend of Robin Hood initially emerges, as evidenced by William Langland’s allusions to ‘rymes of Robyn Hode’ in The Vision of Piers the Plowman (c. 1377). To take you even further back in time than the medieval period and into the ancient world, to a time when the Roman Empire ruled Europe and the Near East, and a young, upstart religious leader was causing a commotion in the relatively backward province of Judea, allow me to take you even further back in time than that.

As soon as he arrived at Calvary, he was commanded to carry his cross to the place of his death on the crucifixion (there are very few historians who doubt that Jesus actually existed, but of course, whether one believes he was the Son of God or not is entirely a matter of faith and, thankfully, not a subject which this website deals with).

  1. After Jesus was nailed to the cross, the nails were driven into the palms of his hands and the soles of his feet.
  2. According to the Gospel of Luke, he was flanked by two robbers on every side.
  3. ” We need you to save yourself and us!
  4. In light of the fact that you are both serving the same sentence, “don’t you fear God?” he inquired.
  5. That is not the case with this individual (Luke 23: 39-41NIV).
See also:  What Happened To Jesus On The Walking Dead

The apocryphal Book of Nicodemus, on the other hand, sheds further information on their identities by revealing the names of the two men: When Jesus was crucified, one of the two robbers who were crucified with him by the name of Gestas said to him, “If thou is the Christ, release thyself and us.” However, the thief, whose name was Dimas, and who was crucified on his right hand, scolded him and asked, “Doest thou not dread God, who has condemned thee to such punishment?” We do, indeed, receive the consequences of our deeds in a righteous and just manner, but what evil has this Jesus committed?

  1. While the names of the two robbers who were killed with Jesus are known to us through apocryphal sources, we know nothing about their real crimes and whereabouts.
  2. Historians largely agree that these punishments were very typical across the Roman Empire, according to their findings.
  3. (c) B.
  4. Shaw is an American writer and poet.
  5. D.

The Roman state instituted a number of measures to deal with bandits; Shaw points out that the construction of watchtowers and military posts throughout the empire served not only as a means of subduing potentially hostile local populations, but also as a means of protecting travelers from robbers as well.

  1. Although this kind of policing was only successful in heavily militarized portions of the empire, there were numerous locations where the arm of the state was unable to fully enter the territory.
  2. Furthermore, if a civilian murdered a robber, he or she was free from homicide regulations.
  3. If they were apprehended, the justice meted out to them would be final (i.e.
  4. The punishments ranged from being thrown to wild beasts in the amphitheatre to being burnt alive or being crucified on the cross of shame.
  5. According to Eric Hobsbawm, banditry was widespread across the Roman Empire, and the individuals who turned to it were frequently members of insurrectionary organizations who aspired to overturn Roman power, as was typically the case with bandits in pre-modern cultures.

As recorded in Benjamin Wilson’sEmphatic Diaglott, the term translated as “brigand” or “robber” in that text is “léstés,” which literally means “robber” or “brigandage.” As a side note: this is the same term that Jesus used in his story about Samaritan who assists the victim of a robbery by a bandit (‘lstais’), which is the plural form of the word for ‘brigand’, when he comes to his rescue.

However, in spite of the efforts put in place to combat it, banditry remained to be a problem across the whole Roman Empire, from Judaea to Britannia, and the three most prevalent causes of death were old age, illness, and bandit assaults.

If high-status Roman individuals ventured beyond the city walls without proper security, historical records suggest that they were frequently just vanished.

There is little more that will ever be known about the lives of Dimas and Gestas (and there is no compelling reason to doubt their existence); while Gestas was unrepentant, Dimas appears to have had a conscience, and he may have also been an archetypal noble robber in the style of Robin Hood or Bulla Felix, the Ancient Roman Robin Hood.

  1. On page 339 of his book Jesus Remembered (Grand Rapids, MI: William B.
  2. G.
  3. D.
  4. 4).
  5. Policing the Roman Empire: Soldiers, Administration, and Public Order, by Christopher J.
  6. The Journal of Drinking Water Trans (London: Routledge, 2004) trans.

Hone, 1820) Posted in: Ancient History,Ancient Rome,antique,Apocrypha,bandits,Bible,Bible Times,crime,Crime History,criminals,cross,Crucifixion,Gospels,History,Jesus,New Testament,Stephen Basdeo Categories:Ancient History,Ancient Rome,antiquity,Apocrypha This entry was posted in: Ancient Rome, antiquity, bandits, BIBLE, BRIGADES, CRUCIFIXION, DIMAS, GESTAS, Jesus Christ, NEW TESTAMENT.

A Tale of Two Brothers

A short video on the two criminals who were crucified beside Jesus was made some years ago by a well-known Christian media organization. Of course, it was all made up, but it was so fascinating that I can’t get it out of my head to this day. The two criminals in the narrative were revealed to be brothers. One was the nice brother, while the other was (as you would have guessed) the bad brother in this story. They were diametrically opposed to one another. The evil brother had troubles with drinking and gambling, whereas the good brother was studying to become a synagogue instructor under the supervision of a rabbi.

  1. He would always be rescued, though, by his decent brother, who would always remind his dumb sibling to clean up his act.
  2. He would drink in order to alleviate his anxiety.
  3. His brother came to his aid once more, promising him that it would be the last time.
  4. He devised a mad scheme to rob a nearby villager in order to pay off his obligations, which he executed successfully.
  5. Nonetheless, he managed to become enmeshed in his brother’s scheme, and the Romans apprehended both of them and imprisoned them.
  6. Returning to the Bible, it is at this time that the account of the two criminals who were executed with Jesus is picked up.

The Criminals Encounter Jesus

It is recorded in Luke 23:39-43 that the convicts’ contact with Jesus occurs after the multitude insults the Lord as He and the two men are nailed to the cross. This is how it is recorded in Mark 15:29-32. People who went by mocked Him, waving their heads and exclaiming, ‘Aha! You who destroy the temple and rebuild it in three days, rescue Yourself and come down from the cross!’ he wrote. Likewise, the top priests, who were laughing among themselves with the scribes, said, “He saved others, but He cannot save Himself.” Allow the Christ, the King of Israel, to descend from the cross at this time, so that we may see and believe.” A comparable account of the scenario may be found in chapter 27, verse 43 of the gospel of Matthew, except Matthew includes a bit more of the mocking of the Pharisees and scribes.

God will deliver him now if He wills it.” “He placed his confidence in God; let Him deliver him now if He wills it.” Because He said, “I am the Son of God.” The two criminals who mocked Jesus are likewise mentioned in both the gospels of Mark and Matthew.

“Even the thieves who were hanged with Him slandered Him with the same accusation.” Matthew 27:44 (KJV) Perhaps the two crooks were just carried away by the emotions of the audience.

And the nasty brother, well, he may have simply been being himself, it’s possible. Who knows what motivated them to act in the manner that they did? Whatever the motive, whether they are criminals or brothers, one of them has a change of heart a short time later.

Asking for Forgiveness

As the multitude booed and jeered Jesus, it appears that one of the convicts came to the conclusion that possibly Jesus was who He claimed to be. A felon who was about to be hung blasphemed Him, telling Him, ‘If You are the Christ, rescue Yourself and us.’ “Do you not even fear God, considering as how you are both under the same condemnation?” said the other when he spoke. And we have truly been justly rewarded for our efforts, as we have received the proper compensation for our efforts. ‘However, this individual has done nothing wrong.’ ‘Lord, please keep me in mind when You come into Your kingdom,’ he requested to Jesus after that.

  • And, of course, we can see that the other man is not convinced.
  • It’s possible that they had never met until that fateful day.
  • Alternatively, you may say “no.” Who knows what will happen?
  • However, there is one aspect about these gentlemen that is important.

The Criminals and the World

We have no idea who the two culprits are or where they came from. All we know about them is that they were thieves. Using the original Hebrew word for “robber” in this Scripture (“lestes”), we might infer that they were either rebels of some type or members of a gang who were well-known for ambushing unsuspecting victims with deadly force. Such aggressive individuals were frequently crucified by the Romans. Regular thieves, on the other hand, were not. Whatever the case, what we are expected to observe is how diametrically opposed the two are.

However, one guy changes his heart and becomes defensive of Jesus, whilst the other man continues to insult Jesus and remains hard-hearted throughout.

What does this have to do with Jesus, you might wonder.

The two criminals are a representation of all of us.

We Must Make a Choice

Whatever the circumstances were that brought them to the cross on that particular day, it is significant that they were crucified on the same day as Jesus. It wasn’t a strange coincidence at all. That is exactly how our all-powerful God designed it. They were meant to be there to meet with the Messiah, but they were late. Isn’t that similar to God’s character? He is continually working our circumstances until we come face to face with Him, even when we are not conscious of it occurring. He’ll go to any length to achieve his goals.

  1. Do we join the hordes of people who despise the Lord, making fun of Him and laughing at Him?
  2. Or it’s possible that we just don’t see the point in having Him in our lives.
  3. How many of us are willing to humble ourselves, confess our bad actions, and beg forgiveness?
  4. Another prayed for forgiveness, while the first insulted him because others had done so.
  5. The other, on the other hand, saw the possibility of endless life.

Despite the fact that both men experienced Jesus, only one chose to follow Him. Their narrative is a perfect reflection of the rest of the globe. We all come into contact with Jesus in some fashion at some point in our lives, but we all have to make a decision at some point.

Abundant Grace

Upon realizing that he had no other option than divine grace, the criminal who approached Jesus for mercy believed that Jesus was the only one who could provide it. His belief that by recognizing Jesus as the Son of God, he would be admitted to heaven was likewise based on this belief. He definitely exhibits real faith when he expresses his belief. Despite the fact that he is about to die, he feels he still has a shot at redemption. Every one of us, my dear friends, has the same opportunity. Everything that happens in the future is determined by the most important decision that we can make today, regardless of our past actions or decisions, or what we’ve done in the past.

  1. We have the option of acknowledging our sin and asking Jesus for divine pardon.
  2. What is the extent of God’s grace?
  3. A LOT, in fact.
  4. 1 Timothy 1:14; Psalm 145:8 tell us that he is totally abounding in it!
  5. He is ecstatic to be able to give it to you.
  6. It’s possible that you’re standing on the threshold of death after a lifetime of rejecting God, just like the criminals who hung alongside Jesus.
  7. He forgives the criminal of everything he has ever done with the last breath He takes on this earth.
  8. What is the maximum amount of forgiveness Jesus will extend to you?
  9. What are your plans?
  10. Allow this to be the happiest moment of your life—the moment you realized you had been assured of your entrance into Paradise.

Who were Dismas and Gestas?

QuestionAnswer Dismas and Gestas are the names that are sometimes used to refer to the two thieves who were crucified to the right and left of Jesus on crosses. Although two men are referenced in the stories of the crucifixion found in the New Testament, their identities are never revealed. However, the names Dismas and Gestas do not originate in the New Testament, but rather are drawn from a pseudodepigraphal work that is not considered to be part of the New Testament canon. Consequently, it is uncertain if Dismas and Gestas were the genuine names of the two men executed during the time of Jesus or if they were fictitious names.

Many people believe that these two exact names cannot be assigned much confidence because they were written almost two centuries after the events had place and because they were discovered in a book that contained other disputed facts.

Dismas was canonized as a saint in the Roman Catholic faith, and his feast day is commemorated on March 25. Go back to the page with all of the Bible questions. Who were Dismas and Gestas, and what was their story?

6 Lessons to Learn from the Thieves Crucified with Jesus

Three crosses erected on the hill of Golgotha on the first Good Friday. Jesus hung on the central cross, eager to accept the penalty that we deserved in exchange for his sacrifice. Two robbers were hanged on the other crosses, each sentenced to death for their respective crimes. There are three crosses and three persons in this story. Two people were in desperate need of help. There was only one person who could offer it. We don’t typically think about the individuals who were crucified with Jesus — the criminals who were on his right and left flanks.

  • Despite the fact that the Bible doesn’t say anything about them, we may learn a lot from them.
  • Two distinct Greek adjectives used to characterize them in the Gospels can be rendered as thieves, robbers, criminals, malefactors, revolutionaries, and rebels, to name a few alternatives.
  • These two men were hardened criminals with a history of violence, and Rome viewed them as a danger to their authority.
  • Ordinarily, Roman citizens and members of the upper classes were exempt from this brutal and excruciating kind of punishment.
See also:  How Much Did Judas Get For Betraying Jesus

Arrogant and Humble

The robbers are mentioned in all four gospels, but Matthew, Mark, and John are the only ones that tell us they were crucified with Jesus. The dialogue between the convicts and Jesus is only recorded in Luke’s account (SeeLuke 23:32-43). Because we don’t know their identities, we’ll refer to them as “Arrogant” and “Humble” to distinguish them from one another. By the letter of the law, Arrogant and Humble deserved what happened to them. Both a painful physical death and an eternal spiritual sentence were meted out to them as a result of their transgression.

  1. It happened just as the prophet Isaiah predicted.
  2. As a result, I will share his part with the many, and he will divide the booty with the powerful, for he poured out his soul to death and was reckoned among the transgressors, but he carried the sin of many and intercedes for the transgressors on my behalf.
  3. Satan’s objectives were furthered by their actions.
  4. I am the entrance.

If someone enters through me, he will be rescued and will be able to walk in and out as he pleases, in search of pasture. The thief is just interested in stealing, killing, and destroying. I come so that they could have life, and that they might have it abundantly. 10:9-10 (ESV) John 10:9-10 (ESV)

Jesus’ Offer to the Thieves… And to Us

However, only Matthew, Mark, and John inform us that the thieves were crucified with Jesus, whilst the other three gospels do not mention them at all! Jesus’ meeting with the convicts is only recorded in Luke’s account (SeeLuke 23:32-43). For the sake of keeping things simple, we’ll refer to them as “Arrogant” and “Humble,” respectively. Arrogant and Humble were legally responsible for their fate. Both a painful physical death and an eternal spiritual sentence were meted out to them as punishment for their wrongdoing.

  • Everything has happened exactly as prophesied by the prophet Isaiah This is exactly what the Father wanted us to experience.
  • In the book of Isaiah, the characters Arrogant and Humble are described as aggressive individuals who lived to steal, kill, and demolish.
  • Jesus, on the other hand, came to offer those who would accept it with a life that was plentiful and full of meaning.
  • If someone enters through me, he will be rescued and will be able to move in and out as he pleases, in search of green pastures.
  • So that they would have life and have it abundantly, I come to give them life.

6 Lessons to Learn from the Crucified Thieves

The robbers are mentioned in all four gospels, but Matthew, Mark, and John are the only ones that tell us they were crucified with Jesus. The encounter between the convicts and Jesus is only recorded by Luke (SeeLuke 23:32-43). Given that we don’t know their real names, we’ll refer to them as “Arrogant” and “Humble” in order to distinguish them. According to the law, Arrogant and Humble deserved what happened to them. Their transgression resulted in a painful bodily death as well as an eternal spiritual punishment.

This is exactly what the prophet Isaiah predicted.

Because he poured out his life to death and was named among the transgressors, I will divide his part among the many, and he will divide the booty among the powerful, because he carried the sin of many and intercedes on their behalf.

Their lives served to advance Satan’s objectives.

I am the front door. If anybody enters through me, he will be rescued and will be able to walk in and go as he pleases in search of pasture. The thief’s sole purpose is to steal, murder, and destroy. I came that they might have life, and that they might have it abundantly. 10:9-10 (ESV) John 10:9-10

What Are The Names of the Thieves Crucified With Christ? – Amazing Bible Timeline with World History

The Bible does not mention the identities of the two thieves. Apocryphal book, The Book of Nicodemus, whichBiblescholars date to the fourth century ADon the Biblical timelinenames the penitent or good thief Dysmas or Dismas, while the thief who mocksJesus is named Gestas, according to the Biblical timeline. Published by the Amazing Bible Timeline with World History, these articles are written by the publishers of the book. Visit this page right now to learn more about this complete Bible study tool!

See almost 6000 years of Bible and world history at a single glance.

  • On this fantastic study companion, you will have access to over 1,000 references in a circular arrangement that is unique to it. Educate yourself on intriguing facts: Biblical events with scriptural references placed alongside global history demonstrate amusing chronological linkages. People will stop and speak about this well laidout Jesus historical timeline poster, which is perfect for your house, business, or church because of its attractive and simple design. More information about this unusual and entertaining Bible study tool may be found by clicking here.

Post navigation

QUESTION: What lessons can we draw from the two robbers who were crucified with Jesus? ANSWER:Jesus’ life and death were both missions of love, and His death was no exception to this. It is the crucifixion of Jesus on the cross at Calvary that serves as a model for living. Jesus was a master at teaching using metaphor. The life and death of Jesus served as a model for how we should spend our lives today and in the future. According to Luke in chapter 23, it appears certain that at least one of His co-accused was enraged against Him, at least in the beginning.

  1. ‘Save yourself and us from ourselves!’ The other criminal, on the other hand, scolded him.
  2. We are being punished fairly, since we are receiving the consequences of our actions.
  3. While he would never see or feel anything in Jesus that would touch him in such a manner that it would become the path that would lead to his salvation, he did see or sense something in Jesus that moved him in a way that would lead to his salvation.
  4. In a split second, he declared what his intuition had already revealed: that Jesus was, in fact, the Son of God!
  5. In the next moments, Jesus demonstrated a magnificent example of understanding and acceptance as well as loving kindness and compassion, which was all wrapped up in a single definitive act.
  6. “Jesus replied him, ‘I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise,'” Jesus said without hesitation in response to his pleading for forgiveness.
  7. One of the two men who were crucified beside Jesus had something to teach us.

This guy was cleaned from his sins by Jesus, who welcomed him with open arms and justified him without reservation.

What about the other offender, though?

Ultimately, everything boils down to a question of faith.

Many people have viewed God’s message with skepticism and even disdain.

God, on the other hand, does not react or grow enraged when we attempt to entice Him, nor does He attack or desert us.

His genuine compassion and mercy have the ability to calm our fears and ease our suffering.

Throughout His life, Jesus remained focused on His mission: to teach us how to love and accept one another unconditionally.

His death served as a testament to the fact that salvation is a reality for everyone who professes their faith. While He hung on the cross, suffering for us and dying for us, Jesus taught us a valuable lesson in forgiveness and mercy.

The three crosses on Calvary: What do they signify?

On the day when Jesus Christ was crucified, there were three crosses on the hill of Calvary. “And when they arrived at the location known as Calvary, they crucified him together with the criminals, one on his right hand and the other on his left,” the Bible says. Luke 23:33 is a biblical passage. It was not by chance that Jesus was crucified alongside two robbers on the cross. “Therefore, I will give Him a part with the great, and He shall share the spoil with the strong, because He poured out His soul unto death, and He was numbered with the transgressors, and He carried the sin of many, and He interceded for the transgressors,” declared the prophet Isaiah.

The first man

“One of the convicts who were hanged blasphemed Him, saying, ‘If You are the Christ, save Yourself and us,'” the Bible says. Luke 23:39 is an example of a parable. We can all identify with this thief because he represents the world that wants to be rescued without admitting the judgment: If You are the Messiah, then take away the judgment; let us flee and take You along with us. Demonstrate your abilities to us. In order to prove that you are a Christian, you must please me and meet my requirements.

  1. Demonstrate Your magnificence and Your abilities so that people can actually see and comprehend that the Messiah is present among us.
  2. Christ’s mission, on the other hand, was not to save the world from judgment, nor was it to produce wonders and miracles in the midst of the beast in order to win the beast’s favor.
  3. The thief was nailed to the cross by his own hands.
  4. A similar manner, the world has been crucified, for we believe that if one is crucified for all, then we are all crucified; and if one died for all, then we are all dead; and if one died for all, we are all dead.
  5. These beliefs are the nails in the coffin of an ungodly person’s heart, and they will never be removed.

The second man

The other, in response, confronted him and scolded him, asking, ‘Do you not even fear God, seeing as how you are subject to the same condemnation? And we are rightfully so, for we have received proper compensation for our acts; but, this Man has done nothing wrong.'” In Luke 23:40-41, the Bible says The first thief desired to be saved without fear of being judged. The second thief, on the other hand, was prepared to suffer as a result of the wicked actions he had committed in the flesh in order to be liberated from them in the hereafter.

In both the first and second thieves, there was sin with them and it hung over them, just as it did in the first thief.

He was no longer under any sort of censure. He had been cleaned of the things he had evaluated about himself. Despite this, he was unable to free himself of his indwelling vice. He depicts those who have been cleansed of their sins but who have no desire for anything else in their lives.

The third man

This was none other than the Lord Jesus Christ. Although the first thief targeted Him with his sneer, He did not respond; instead, the other thief spoke on His behalf. God has also preserved thieves today who are capable of answering all of the world’s inquiries concerning Jesus, as well as refuting their arguments and turning aside their ridicule. Jesus, on the other hand, did not say a single word in response to their questions. He does, however, respond to the second thief with an oath: “I assure you, today you will be with Me in Paradise,” He says.

Jesus not only suffered our sins on His body while nailed to the cross, but He also bore sin inside Himself.

God condemned sin in the person of Jesus Christ.

It was impossible for the law to judge sin in the flesh since all of a man’s sin is done outside of his physical body, making it impossible for the law to judge sin in the flesh.

Everyone who wishes to be saved from the power of indwelling sin must now daily take up his or her own cross.

Jesus did not have the nature of angels; instead, He was descended from Abraham’s lineage.

No one can be held responsible or condemned for the judgment that takes place in the body over sin inherent in our nature since it takes place within the body.

There is a growth of the body, a salvation of the body, and a judgment of the body.

He offers an external redemption via the person of Jesus Christ.

The adversaries of the cross of Christ, on the other hand, are opposed to this inner redemption, and, like the thief, they are content with the remission of sins as a result of the crucifixion of Christ.

She longs to be a participant in His holiness and has calculated the cost of such a pursuit.

She is made of the same flesh that He is and the same bone as He is. The bridegroom is willing not only to partake in the delight, but also to suffer and die with him – not just to the curse of the law, but also to the character of Adam in his physical body – because she shares in his joy.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.