King James Version

What Does Luke 23:32 Mean?

Luke 23:32 in the King James Version says “And there were also two other, malefactors, led with him to be put to death.” — study this verse from Luke chapter 23 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“And there were also two other, malefactors, led with him to be put to death.”

Luke 23:32 · KJV

Context

30

Then shall they begin to say to the mountains, Fall on us; and to the hills, Cover us.

31

For if they do these things in a green tree, what shall be done in the dry?

32

And there were also two other, malefactors, led with him to be put to death.

33

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. Calvary: or, The place of a skull

34

Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots.

Read Luke 23 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And there were also two other, malefactors, led with him to be put to death. The term "malefactors" (kakourgoi, κακοῦργοι) means "evil-doers" or "criminals," likely bandits or insurrectionists. The word appears only here and in Luke 23:33, 39, emphasizing their genuine guilt in contrast to Jesus' innocence. Their crucifixion with Christ fulfilled Isaiah 53:12: "He was numbered with the transgressors" (kai meta anomōn elogisthē, καὶ μετὰ ἀνόμων ἐλογίσθη).

The phrase "led with him" (syn auto, σὺν αὐτῷ) indicates physical proximity and shared fate, yet eternal distinction. All three bore crosses to Golgotha, all three were crucified, all three suffered Roman execution. But one criminal repented and heard, "To day shalt thou be with me in paradise" (v. 43), while the other died in his sins. Physical proximity to Christ guarantees nothing; only faith in Him saves. Judas walked with Jesus for three years yet perished; the repentant thief spent hours with Him and entered paradise.

This scene demonstrates the gospel's offensive scandal—the sinless Son of God executed among common criminals, sharing their shame and agony. Yet this very scandal reveals grace's accessibility. Christ descended to the lowest place—numbered with transgressors, condemned among the condemned—so that even the worst sinners might find salvation. The cross levels all humanity: guilty criminals and the innocent Christ crucified together, yet only faith distinguishes their eternal destiny.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Roman crucifixion typically punished slaves, violent criminals, and insurrectionists—the lowest elements of society. Cicero called it "the most cruel and disgusting penalty" (crudelissimum taeterrimumque supplicium), forbidden for Roman citizens. Mass crucifixions were common—Josephus records that during the siege of Jerusalem, Romans crucified up to 500 Jews daily, running out of wood for crosses.

The practice of crucifying multiple criminals simultaneously served both practical efficiency and psychological impact. Displaying numerous executions along major roads maximized deterrent effect. That Jesus was crucified between two criminals suggests Roman authorities grouped Him with insurrectionists, possibly because the charge against Him was claiming to be "King of the Jews"—perceived political sedition. This detail, recorded by all four Gospels, emphasizes both the historical reality of Christ's degradation and the prophetic fulfillment of Isaiah 53.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does Jesus being "numbered with the transgressors" demonstrate the depths of humiliation He endured for our redemption?
  2. What does the contrasting eternal destiny of the two criminals teach about proximity to Christ versus faith in Christ?
  3. How should knowing that Jesus descended to share the fate of condemned criminals encourage those who feel too sinful for God's grace?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 9 words
Ἤγοντο1 of 9

“led”

G71

properly, to lead; by implication, to bring, drive, (reflexively) go, (specially) pass (time), or (figuratively) induce

δὲ2 of 9

“And”

G1161

but, and, etc

καὶ3 of 9

“there were also”

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

ἕτεροι4 of 9

“other”

G2087

(an-, the) other or different

δύο5 of 9

“two”

G1417

"two"

κακοῦργοι6 of 9

“malefactors”

G2557

a wrong-doer, i.e., criminal

σὺν7 of 9

“with”

G4862

with or together (but much closer than g3326 or g3844), i.e., by association, companionship, process, resemblance, possession, instrumentality, additi

αὐτῷ8 of 9

“him”

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

ἀναιρεθῆναι9 of 9

“to be put to death”

G337

to take up, i.e., adopt; by implication, to take away (violently), i.e., abolish, murder

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Luke. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Luke 23:32 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Luke 23:32 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Mark 15:27Isaiah 53:12Matthew 27:38John 19:18Hebrews 12:2Luke 22:37

Test Your Knowledge

Luke 23 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterLuke Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

Read Luke 23 with CommentaryAll Luke ChaptersComplete Luke QuizBible CharactersNave's Topical BibleAll Bible Quizzes