New Testament
Luke 23:33
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When they arrived at the place called Calvary, they crucified him there along with the two criminals—one on his right and one on his left.
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And when they were come to the place, which is called Calvary, there they crucified him, and the malefactors, one on the right hand, and the other on the left.
What Luke 23:33 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see the moment when Jesus is taken to Calvary, the site of his crucifixion. He is nailed to a cross between two criminals, highlighting his role as a sacrificial figure. The presence of the criminals on either side emphasizes the gravity of the situation and the injustice of his execution. This moment is significant as it fulfills prophecies about the Messiah being counted among the transgressors. The act of crucifixion itself was a brutal form of punishment reserved for the worst offenders, yet Jesus, who was innocent, willingly endured this suffering. This scene illustrates the depth of his sacrifice and the extent of his love for humanity, as he chose to bear the sins of the world. The mention of the two criminals also serves to contrast their guilt with Jesus' innocence, further underscoring the injustice of his death. This moment is pivotal in the Christian faith, as it marks the culmination of Jesus' mission on earth, leading to the resurrection and the hope of salvation for all who believe.
How to apply Luke 23:33 to your life
This verse reminds us of the depth of Jesus' sacrifice and encourages us to reflect on our own lives. We can strive to embody his love and forgiveness, even in difficult situations. Understanding his suffering can inspire us to support others who are facing hardships.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: The Crucifixion (Luke 23:26–43)
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Jesus
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Bethlehem
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Keep studying Luke 23:33
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At a Glance — the Book of Luke
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 23:33 mean?
Luke 23:33 describes the moment when Jesus is crucified at Calvary, positioned between two criminals. This highlights his role as a sacrificial figure and fulfills prophecies about the Messiah being counted among transgressors.
What is the significance of Calvary in Luke 23:33?
Calvary, the site of Jesus' crucifixion, is significant as it represents the culmination of his mission to bear the sins of humanity. The location underscores the brutality of his sacrifice and the injustice of his execution.
Why were criminals crucified with Jesus in Luke 23:33?
The presence of the two criminals crucified alongside Jesus emphasizes the gravity of his situation and contrasts their guilt with his innocence. It serves to illustrate the injustice of his death as he was executed among wrongdoers.
What does the term 'malefactors' mean in Luke 23:33?
In Luke 23:33, 'malefactors' refers to the two criminals who were crucified alongside Jesus. The term indicates that they were guilty of crimes, contrasting sharply with Jesus' innocence.
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