Bible moment
The Bible moment
Luke 23:39–43 describes Jesus being crucified between two criminals. One criminal insults Jesus, but the other rebukes him, acknowledges that they are receiving what they deserve, and recognizes that Jesus has done nothing wrong. He then asks Jesus to remember him when Jesus comes into his kingdom. Jesus answers that the man will be with him in paradise that day. Luke does not give either criminal a name or describe their crimes in this passage. The account centers on Jesus’ mercy and the repentant criminal’s humble trust. The promise is spoken during Jesus’ crucifixion, so the scene should be presented reverently and without graphic detail.
Look closely
What children can notice
Show the two criminals on either side of Jesus, with one rebuking the other and humbly asking Jesus to remember him. Jesus responds with a gentle promise of paradise, represented by a peaceful symbolic landscape or light.
Talk together
Talk about it
- What did the second criminal recognize about Jesus?
- How can we turn to Jesus with honesty and hope?
For families, church, and class
Use this page
Use this page with older children and provide gentle pastoral care, since it discusses crucifixion. Invite children to notice repentance, mercy, and hope without focusing on graphic details. Families, churches, Sunday school classes, and homeschool groups may pair the image with Luke 23:39–43 and prayerful reflection.
Source note
From this passage
Luke 23:39-43 · The Crucifixion in Luke
Show the two criminals on either side of Jesus, with one rebuking the other and humbly asking Jesus to remember him. Jesus responds with a gentle promise of paradise, represented by a peaceful symbolic landscape or light.
