What can we learn from the thief crucified on the cross alongside Jesus? Why was this event recorded at all, and can we learn anything important from this event?
First, let us consider who this person was. Nowhere has his history been recorded for us, but we can presume he was not an amiable person. He was obviously a thief, and who knows what other crimes he may have committed to earn the death sentence? In Luke 23:39 to 42, we see the confession of this criminal. He admits he is guilty and deserving of the penalty he is now about to pay.
It is very important to note here that he also says Jesus has done nothing wrong. Then he calls Jesus Lord and then asks Jesus to remember him when He comes into His Kingdom. In doing this, he is acknowledging Jesus as his Messiah. Showing Jesus he has faith in who he is. This event is recorded for us in Luke 23 verses 39 to 42.
Luk 23:39 One of the criminals who was hanged insulted him, saying, "If you are the Christ, save yourself and us!"
Luk 23:40 But the other answered, and rebuking him said, "Don't you even fear God, seeing you are under the same condemnation?
Luk 23:41 And we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward for our deeds, but this man has done nothing wrong."
Luk 23:42 He said to Jesus, "Lord, remember me when you come into your Kingdom."
When we consider this event, we realise the following points about this criminal. He would not have been baptised. Nor had he ever followed Jesus nor prayed to Him. By his own confession, he was a thief and deserving of his penalty. He was only a matter of a few hours from his death when he asks Jesus to remember him.

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