In the crucifixion accounts found in Matthew 27:34-38 and Luke 23:27-33, we encounter a profound moment in human history. That day, three crosses stood on Calvary, bearing three different destinies—two thieves and Jesus. Let’s dive into the significance of these three crosses and what they represent in the grand narrative of salvation.
The Cross of Redemption: One of the crosses on Calvary held the sinless and blameless Son of God, Jesus Christ. Scripture tells us that Jesus was innocent of any wrongdoing (Hebrews 4:15). Even though Pilate and Herod found no fault in Him (Luke 23:1-4, 8-11, 15), He willingly surrendered Himself to the cross for the redemption of humanity.
Isaiah 53:4-6 and 1 Peter 1:18-19 remind us that Jesus was a sacrifice for sin. His shed blood became the price of our redemption (1 John 1:7). Through His death, we find forgiveness and justification (Romans 3:24-26). Jesus’ selfless love on the cross became the grounds upon which we can experience redemption.
The Cross of Rebellion: Another cross at Calvary bore a thief who rebelled against God (Matthew 27:38). Joined by his companion, he blasphemed Jesus along with the crowd (Matthew 27:39-44). This man’s heart remained hardened until his final breath, defying God until the end.
Acts 10:38 shows us that the harsh words spoken against Jesus were undeserved. This thief represents many who rebel against God, rejecting His claims on their lives. Their hearts are calloused by disobedience, and they refuse to bow to God’s authority and mercy.
It is saddening to think that this thief, hanging so close to the blood of his salvation, rejected the opportunity for redemption. Similarly, we must examine our hearts to see if we are rebelling against God’s grace and love, like rebellious children of believers or those who attend but do not obey.
The Cross of Repentance: The third cross on Calvary held another thief who, like his companion, initially blasphemed Jesus (Matthew 27:38; Luke 23:39-41). However, as he witnessed the events surrounding the crucifixion, he was convicted of Jesus’ innocence. This thief heard Jesus’ prayer for forgiveness (Luke 23:34) and saw the darkness that shrouded the land at noon (Mark 15:33). He also witnessed Jesus’ care for His mother (John 19:25-27).
In a decisive moment of revelation, the repentant thief recognized his guilt and rebuked the other thief’s blasphemy. He displayed faith in Jesus and understood that Jesus’ kingdom was not confined to the earthly realm (Luke 23:42). His words reflected familiarity with Jesus and His teachings.
Despite his sins, this thief humbly pleaded for mercy (Luke 23:42). In response to his genuine repentance and faith, Jesus granted him salvation, promising they would be together in Paradise that day (Luke 23:43).
The thief on the cross does not invalidate the biblical necessity of baptism for salvation (John 3:5; Mark 16:15-16; Acts 2:38; 22:16; 1 Peter 3:21). Rather, it demonstrates the boundless grace of God, who can save even a dying thief without baptism.
Conclusion: As we consider the three crosses of Calvary, we must confront the terms of our salvation through the blood of Jesus Christ. The Cross of Redemption reminds us of the selfless sacrifice of Jesus, offering redemption to all who believe. The Cross of Rebellion warns against living in defiance of God’s will, calling us to examine our hearts and surrender to His grace. The Cross of Repentance offers hope, showing that no one is beyond redemption if they turn to Jesus in genuine repentance and faith.
Which cross represents you today? Are you willing to embrace the redemption offered through the cross of Christ? Let us remember the powerful words of Paul as he addressed the Athenians in Acts 17:32,34, where the message of the cross separates hearts and lives. May we be drawn to the Cross of Redemption and follow Jesus with unwavering faith and obedience.
~PW 🌮🛶
Phillip W. Martin 
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