John 19:18

Where they crucified him, and two other with him, on either side one, and Jesus in the midst.

Where {G3699} they crucified {G4717} him {G846}, and {G2532} two {G1417} other {G243} with {G3326} him {G846}, on either side one {G2532}{G1782}{G1782}, and {G1161} Jesus {G2424} in the midst {G3319}.

There they nailed him to the stake along with two others, one on either side, with Yeshua in the middle.

There they crucified Him, and with Him two others, one on each side, with Jesus in the middle.

where they crucified him, and with him two others, on either side one, and Jesus in the midst.

Commentary

John 19:18 KJV vividly describes the scene of Jesus' crucifixion, a pivotal moment in Christian theology. This verse precisely locates Jesus physically between two others, underscoring both the historical reality of the event and its profound spiritual significance.

Context

Following His unjust trials and Pilate's reluctant condemnation, Jesus was led to Golgotha, also known as Calvary, the "Place of a Skull." Roman crucifixions were public spectacles designed to inflict maximum pain and humiliation, serving as a deterrent. It was common practice for multiple condemned individuals to be executed simultaneously. Here, Jesus is placed alongside two others, identified in other Gospels as robbers or criminals (Matthew 27:38, Luke 23:33).

Key Themes

  • Fulfillment of Prophecy: Jesus being "in the midst" of two criminals directly fulfills Old Testament prophecy, particularly Isaiah 53:12, which states the suffering servant would be "numbered with the transgressors." This placement emphasizes His identification with humanity's fallen state and His role as the ultimate sacrifice for sin.
  • Jesus' Centrality: Despite the attempt to humiliate Him by placing Him among criminals, Jesus remains the focal point. His position "in the midst" signifies His unique and unparalleled role in salvation history. Even at His lowest point, He is the center of divine attention and human destiny.
  • Ultimate Humiliation and Divine Purpose: The act of crucifixion itself was a brutal and shameful death. To be crucified between common criminals amplified this disgrace. Yet, this extreme humiliation was part of God's sovereign plan for redemption, demonstrating the depth of Christ's sacrifice and His obedience unto death.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "crucified" is stauroō (σταυρόω), meaning to impale on a cross or stake. This term conveys the brutal and agonizing method of execution. The phrase "in the midst" translates the Greek en mesō (ἐν μέσῳ), literally meaning "in the middle" or "among." This simple geographical description carries profound theological weight, underscoring Jesus' central position not just on the cross, but in God's plan for humanity.

Practical Application

John 19:18 reminds believers of the stark reality and immense cost of our salvation. Jesus willingly endured the ultimate shame and suffering, identifying with the lowest of humanity, to bridge the gap between God and man. His placement between criminals highlights His mission to save all, even those considered beyond hope. It calls us to reflect on the depth of God's love and the transformative power of the cross, which remains the central symbol of Christian faith and the source of our hope.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Isaiah 53:12

    Therefore will I divide him [a portion] with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong; because he hath poured out his soul unto death: and he was numbered with the transgressors; and he bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.

  • Psalms 22:16

    For dogs have compassed me: the assembly of the wicked have inclosed me: they pierced my hands and my feet.

  • Mark 15:24

    And when they had crucified him, they parted his garments, casting lots upon them, what every man should take.

  • Mark 15:27

    And with him they crucify two thieves; the one on his right hand, and the other on his left.

  • John 18:32

    That the saying of Jesus might be fulfilled, which he spake, signifying what death he should die.

  • Galatians 3:13

    Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed [is] every one that hangeth on a tree:

  • Luke 23:32

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