The Scriptures predicted that the Messiah would be crucified along with criminals: “He was numbered with the transgressors” (Isa. 53:12). And not only through direct prophecy, as here in Isaiah, but also in “type” as seen in the life of Joseph (Gen. 40:21–22). The innocent Joseph was put into a prison house alongside Pharaoh’s cupbearer and baker. He was numbered with the transgressors. One of these was condemned, the other restored—a remarkable foreshadowing of what would happen to the two thieves which were on either side of Christ!

Luke mentions something about the two robbers the other three Gospels do not record: one of them repented and believed in Christ. Indeed, Matthew says that both robbers were mocking the Lord at the start of Christ’s sufferings on the cross (Mt. 27:44). Then according to Dr. Luke, a remarkable and dramatic change occurred in one of them.

What happened? God’s grace worked in this robber’s conscience; as the hours wore on, he was smitten by the words and godly bearing of Christ. He clearly believed in an afterlife, and he knew that he was not ready for it. He confessed his sinfulness, and confessed Christ as the Lord, saying, “Lord, remember me.” The blessed response was, “Today you will be with Me in Paradise” (Lk. 23:43). The newly saved man did not have to wait until the kingdom for the Lord to remember him, but he would be in Paradise that very day. The Lord, however, desires we remember Him in the Supper which He instituted. The penitent robber did not get that opportunity here on the earth—he immediately went to heaven. That is not the case for us. Let’s make use of the opportunity while we are still here. Paradise and the kingdom are coming, but now is the time to announce His death.