The following is a repost from this site, Thieves@thecross, a ministry of Barbara Lardinais.
Why were there two thieves at the cross?
The Question:
It seems to me that the most important thing that Christ did for us was to die on the cross. However, two other men were crucified next to him that day. Knowing God could have chosen for Christ to be crucified alone, thereby putting more of a historical spotlight on the sacrifice of this Son, I wonder why God chose to allow two other men to be crucified with Jesus that day? I feel God gives meaning in even the smallest details and events. The forgiveness that Jesus gives to the one man before dying is yet another act of love even as he is dying himself. This has always touched my heart in a powerful, meaningful way. Is there more to this question, and were the two others needed in order to fulfill an ancient scripture regarding the death of Christ?
- Frank from Pittsburgh
The Answer
Part 1: Prophecies about Christ's death
Part 2: The crucifixion scene
Part 3: The power and the lessons