Luke 23:40

KJV

But the other answering rebuked him, saying, Dost not thou fear God, seeing thou art in the same condemnation?

KJV (with Strong's)

But {G1161} the other {G2087} answering {G611} rebuked {G2008} him {G846}, saying {G3004}, Dost {G5399} not {G3761} thou {G4771} fear {G5399} God {G2316}, seeing {G3754} thou art {G1488} in {G1722} the same {G846} condemnation {G2917}?

Complete Jewish Bible

But the other one spoke up and rebuked the first, saying, “Have you no fear of God? You’re getting the same punishment as he is.

Berean Standard Bible

But the other one rebuked him, saying, “Do you not even fear God, since you are under the same judgment?

American Standard Version

But the other answered, and rebuking him said, Dost thou not even fear God, seeing thou art in the same condemnation?

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Luke 23:40 captures the pivotal moment on the cross when one of the criminals crucified alongside Jesus rebukes his companion. This criminal, often referred to as the penitent thief, challenges the other's blasphemy by appealing to a fundamental fear of God and acknowledging their shared, just condemnation. This verse serves as a dramatic turning point, highlighting the contrasting responses to Christ's suffering and setting the stage for the penitent thief's eventual confession of faith and Jesus' promise of paradise.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within the intensely dramatic narrative of Jesus' crucifixion on Golgotha, as recorded in [Luke 23](/luke/23 "Luke 23 - The Crucifixion of Jesus"). Immediately preceding this, in [Luke 23:39](/luke/23-39 "Luke 23:39 - The Unrepentant Thief's Taunt"), one of the criminals crucified with Jesus mocks Him, challenging Him to save Himself and them. The unrepentant thief's taunt is a final, bitter expression of unbelief and defiance, even in the face of death. Luke 23:40 presents a stark and profound contrast, as the "other" criminal intervenes, not only silencing his companion but also articulating a nascent understanding of divine justice and a dawning reverence for God. This rebuke paves the way for the penitent thief's remarkable confession of faith in [Luke 23:42](/luke/23-42 "Luke 23:42 - The Penitent Thief's Plea"), which is met with Jesus' gracious promise of paradise in [Luke 23:43](/luke/23-43 "Luke 23:43 - Jesus' Promise to the Penitent Thief"). The scene underscores the diverse human responses to Jesus, even at the very moment of His atoning death.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The crucifixion was a brutal form of capital punishment reserved by the Romans primarily for slaves, rebels, and the lowest classes of criminals. It was designed to be a public spectacle of humiliation and agonizing death, serving as a deterrent. The two criminals crucified alongside Jesus were likely "malefactors" or "bandits" (Greek: _lestai_), a term that could encompass common thieves but also insurgents or revolutionaries against Roman rule. Their presence highlights the Roman legal system's harshness and the company Jesus kept in His final hours, fulfilling prophecies of His being "numbered with the transgressors" (e.g., [Isaiah 53:12](/isaiah/53-12 "Isaiah 53:12 - Numbered with Transgressors")). The cultural expectation in Jewish society, even among condemned criminals, would have included a general awareness of God's judgment and the concept of a just recompense for one's deeds, particularly as death approached. The penitent thief's words reflect this ingrained understanding of divine accountability, even as he faces the ultimate earthly penalty.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Luke's Gospel and the broader biblical narrative. It highlights the theme of **repentance and salvation**, demonstrating that even at the eleventh hour, a genuine turning to God is possible and met with divine grace. The thief's question, "Dost not thou fear God?", introduces the theme of the **fear of God**, not as mere terror, but as a profound reverence and acknowledgment of God's sovereign authority and ultimate judgment, a concept foundational to biblical wisdom (e.g., [Proverbs 9:10](/proverbs/9-10 "Proverbs 9:10 - The Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Wisdom")). Furthermore, the verse underscores the theme of **divine justice versus human injustice**, as the penitent thief implicitly recognizes the justness of his own condemnation while simultaneously discerning the innocence of Jesus, who "hath done nothing amiss" ([Luke 23:41](/luke/23-41 "Luke 23:41 - The Penitent Thief's Confession")). This moment also speaks to the **universal need for salvation**, showing that Christ's redemptive work extends even to the most unlikely recipients, regardless of their past.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **rebuked (Greek, _epitimáō'_):** This word (G2008) means "to tax upon, i.e., censure or admonish; by implication, forbid." In this context, it signifies a strong, authoritative reprimand. The penitent thief is not merely disagreeing with his companion; he is actively and forcefully correcting him, forbidding his blasphemous speech. This indicates a profound shift in the penitent thief's perspective, moving from a position of shared criminality to one of moral and spiritual discernment, where he feels compelled to defend the honor of God and the innocence of Jesus.
* **fear (Greek, _phobéō'_):** The verb (G5399) means "to frighten, i.e., (passively) to be alarmed; by analogy, to be in awe of, i.e., revere." While it can denote terror, in the context of "fear God," it primarily conveys a deep sense of reverence, awe, and respect for God's holiness, power, and ultimate judgment. The penitent thief's question implies that his companion, facing imminent death and divine judgment, should possess this reverential fear, which would prevent such defiant and disrespectful speech. This "fear" is the beginning of wisdom and a proper recognition of God's sovereignty.
* **condemnation (Greek, _kríma'_):** This noun (G2917) derives from the verb "to judge" and refers to "a decision (the function or the effect, for or against ('crime')):--avenge, condemned, condemnation, damnation, + go to law, judgment." The thief's use of this word indicates his understanding that their shared suffering is not arbitrary but a just judgment or sentence for their crimes. This self-awareness of guilt and the acknowledgment of the righteousness of their punishment stands in stark contrast to the unrepentant thief's railing and implies a nascent acceptance of divine justice.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But the other answering rebuked him":** This clause immediately establishes a dramatic contrast with the preceding verse. The "other" criminal, previously silent, now speaks out. His "answering" is not merely a reply but a decisive intervention. The act of "rebuking" signifies a strong moral and spiritual correction, indicating that the penitent thief has undergone a profound internal change, recognizing the gravity of their situation and the blasphemy of his companion's words.
* **"saying, Dost not thou fear God":** This rhetorical question is at the heart of the verse. It challenges the unrepentant thief's spiritual blindness and lack of reverence. The penitent thief implies that anyone facing death and the imminent presence of God's judgment should be filled with a profound awe and respect for God, which would preclude such defiant and mocking speech. This question reveals the penitent thief's own dawning spiritual awareness and respect for divine authority.
* **"seeing thou art in the same condemnation?":** This final clause provides the basis for the rebuke. The penitent thief points out their shared predicament: both are justly condemned to death for their crimes. This acknowledgment of their own guilt and the righteousness of their punishment highlights the unrepentant thief's hypocrisy and folly in mocking Jesus, who is innocent. It underscores the penitent thief's humility and acceptance of his fate, which sets him apart and prepares him for a saving encounter with Christ.

#### Literary Devices
Luke's account of the crucifixion, particularly this exchange, is rich in **Contrast**. The two criminals serve as foils, dramatically illustrating the two possible responses to Jesus: one of hardened rebellion and the other of humble repentance. This contrast is heightened by the **Rhetorical Question** ("Dost not thou fear God?"), which serves not only to rebuke the unrepentant thief but also to invite the reader to consider their own stance before God. The scene also employs **Dramatic Irony**, as the penitent thief, a condemned criminal, displays greater spiritual insight and moral rectitude than many of the religious leaders and onlookers who mock Jesus. His words are a form of **Prophetic Utterance**, implicitly affirming Jesus' innocence and divine authority, even as he hangs dying.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Luke 23:40 is a powerful testament to the transformative power of divine grace, even in the direst circumstances. It underscores the critical importance of a proper "fear of God"—not a cowering terror, but a reverential awe that acknowledges His sovereignty, justice, and holiness. This fear is the beginning of wisdom and the foundation for true repentance. The penitent thief's recognition of his just condemnation, contrasted with Jesus' innocence, highlights the core Christian doctrine of substitutionary atonement: that Jesus, though innocent, bore the condemnation due to humanity. This verse sets the stage for one of the most profound displays of God's boundless mercy, demonstrating that salvation is available to all who, even at the very last moment, turn to Christ in humble faith and acknowledge His lordship. It reminds us that no one is beyond the reach of God's redeeming love.

* [Proverbs 9:10](/proverbs/9-10 "Proverbs 9:10 - The Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Wisdom")
* [Psalm 111:10](/psalms/111-10 "Psalm 111:10 - Reverence for the Lord")
* [Matthew 10:28](/matthew/10-28 "Matthew 10:28 - Fear God, Not Man")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The exchange on the cross in Luke 23:40 offers a profound mirror for self-reflection. The penitent thief's courageous rebuke challenges us to consider whether we truly "fear God" in a way that shapes our words, actions, and attitude towards sin. Do we acknowledge our own sinfulness and the justice of God's standards for our lives, or do we, like the unrepentant thief, remain defiant or dismissive, even in the face of truth? This verse calls us to humility, urging us to recognize our shared human fallenness and the universal need for God's grace. It inspires us to speak truth, even when it is difficult or unpopular, and to stand for what is right, just as the penitent thief did amidst his own agony. Ultimately, this passage is a powerful reminder of the boundless mercy of God, who offers salvation even at the very brink of death, provided there is a genuine turning of the heart towards Him.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways does my life demonstrate a reverential fear of God, or a lack thereof?**
* **How willing am I to acknowledge my own sin and the justice of God's judgment, especially when facing difficult consequences?**
* **When have I had the opportunity to speak truth or rebuke injustice, even when it was personally challenging or unpopular? Did I take it?**
* **What does the penitent thief's transformation on the cross teach me about the nature of repentance and the accessibility of God's grace?**

### FAQ

**What does "Dost not thou fear God" mean in this context?**

Answer: This rhetorical question from the penitent thief to his fellow criminal is a profound challenge. It implies a deep sense of awe, reverence, and respect for God's ultimate authority and judgment, rather than mere terror. The penitent thief is essentially asking, "Given that we are both facing imminent death and God's judgment for our sins, how can you dare to mock and blaspheme an innocent man, especially when you should be concerned with your own eternal destiny?" It highlights a fundamental understanding that a proper "fear of God" should lead to humility, self-awareness of sin, and a recognition of divine justice, preventing such defiant behavior. This "fear" is foundational to wisdom and true spiritual insight, as seen in [Proverbs 1:7](/proverbs/1-7 "Proverbs 1:7 - The Fear of the Lord").

**What is the significance of the penitent thief acknowledging "the same condemnation"?**

Answer: The penitent thief's statement, "seeing thou art in the same condemnation," is crucial because it demonstrates his humility and self-awareness. He acknowledges that his suffering and impending death are a just consequence of his own actions and crimes. Unlike the unrepentant thief, who rails against his fate, the penitent thief accepts the righteousness of his punishment. This recognition of shared guilt before both human and divine law sets him apart and prepares his heart to discern the innocence of Jesus, who "hath done nothing amiss" ([Luke 23:41](/luke/23-41 "Luke 23:41 - The Penitent Thief's Confession")). This acceptance of his own just condemnation is a vital step towards true repentance and ultimately, salvation.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Luke 23:40, while focusing on the penitent thief's awakening, points powerfully to the Christ-centered fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. The scene on Golgotha, with Jesus crucified between two criminals, vividly portrays the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), being "numbered with the transgressors" as prophesied in [Isaiah 53:12](/isaiah/53-12 "Isaiah 53:12 - Numbered with Transgressors"). The penitent thief's recognition of his own just condemnation, contrasted with Jesus' innocence, underscores the core of the Gospel: that Jesus, the sinless Son of God, bore the condemnation that humanity justly deserved ([2 Corinthians 5:21](/2_corinthians/5-21 "2 Corinthians 5:21 - Christ Became Sin for Us")). His rebuke of the other thief, and his subsequent plea to Jesus in [Luke 23:42](/luke/23-42 "Luke 23:42 - The Penitent Thief's Plea"), reveal a dawning faith in Christ's kingship and power, even in His apparent weakness. Jesus' immediate promise of paradise ([Luke 23:43](/luke/23-43 "Luke 23:43 - Jesus' Promise to the Penitent Thief")) is the ultimate demonstration of His sovereign authority over life and death, and His boundless grace extended to all who call upon His name, fulfilling His mission to seek and to save the lost ([Luke 19:10](/luke/19-10 "Luke 19:10 - Jesus Came to Seek and Save the Lost")). This moment on the cross encapsulates the essence of the New Covenant, where salvation is offered freely through faith in the crucified and resurrected Christ, regardless of one's past or the eleventh hour of one's life ([Romans 10:9-10](/romans/10-9-10 "Romans 10:9-10 - Confess and Believe")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Revelation 15:4

Who shall not fear thee, O Lord, and glorify thy name? for [thou] only [art] holy: for all nations shall come and worship before thee; for thy judgments are made manifest.

Luke 12:5

But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him.

Psalms 36:1

¶ To the chief Musician, [A Psalm] of David the servant of the LORD. The transgression of the wicked saith within my heart, [that there is] no fear of God before his eyes.

Ephesians 5:11

And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove [them].

Jeremiah 5:3

O LORD, [are] not thine eyes upon the truth? thou hast stricken them, but they have not grieved; thou hast consumed them, [but] they have refused to receive correction: they have made their faces harder than a rock; they have refused to return.

2 Chronicles 28:22

And in the time of his distress did he trespass yet more against the LORD: this [is that] king Ahaz.

Leviticus 19:17

Thou shalt not hate thy brother in thine heart: thou shalt in any wise rebuke thy neighbour, and not suffer sin upon him.