BIBLE READING: LEVITICUS 17, 18; MATTHEW 27:23-44
“Then were there two thieves crucified with him; one on the right hand, and another on the left” Matthew 27:38 (KJV).
It was not by chance that Jesus was crucified between two thieves; it was divinely orchestrated by the father. As the sin bearer, he had to identify with sin and with sinners. Thieves were regarded as the worst sinners; no person will like to identify with them. Crucifixion was the worst death so thieves were sentenced to death by hanging on the cross. It was a very shameful and painful death.
To show himself as our sin bearer, Jesus had to identify with our sins. He was crucified between two notorious thieves; one at the right hand and the other at the left hand. What a way to show us that He was our sin bearer. No wonder the scripture says that Jesus was made sin for us that we might become the righteousness of God.
By this action, opportunity was given to the two thieves to be saved and finish well but unfortunately, the thief at the left denied himself of this life time opportunity to be saved. The thief at the right hand availed himself of this glorious opportunity to ask for salvation. Jesus said to him, today you will be with me in paradise.
Jesus was made sin that we might be made the righteousness of God in Christ.
Prayer: Thank you Jesus for identifying with our sin so we can identify with your righteousness.
Rev. Vincent Diolu