I find it interesting that not only were two thieves crucified at the time of the Savior, but that one was to His left and one was to His right. He was “numbered with the transgressors” – fulfilling prophecy (see Mark 15:27–28). One of the thieves mocked the Savior right along with the soldiers and other cold-blooded onlookers. While the other thief said, “Lord remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom. Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, today shalt thou be with me in paradise” (study Luke 23:39–43).
Interesting how the Savior made such a matter-of-fact promise to an individual who admitted that he was receiving a just reward for his deeds at the hands of the Romans (see Luke 23:41). He would be in paradise. Really? Like Heaven, in some eternal realm of glory and joy because he happened to be on the cross next to the Son of God? It doesn’t correlate with what the Savior taught throughout His ministry.
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