Robbers
“Robber, brigand, bandit”
Summary
Robbers plagued the ancient world, making travel dangerous, and Jesus was crucified between two robbers while being contrasted with the robber Barabbas.
☩Dangers of Travel
Travel in the ancient world was perilous due to robbers who ambushed travelers, especially on lonely mountain roads. The Jericho road, descending through desolate terrain, was notoriously dangerous, providing the setting for Jesus' parable of the Good Samaritan. Paul lists being 'in perils of robbers' among his apostolic sufferings.
☩At the Crucifixion
Jesus was crucified between two robbers (Greek lestai), fulfilling Isaiah's prophecy that He would be 'numbered with the transgressors.' One robber reviled Jesus; the other repented and received Christ's promise of paradise. Barabbas, whom the crowd chose to release instead of Jesus, was also a robber and insurrectionist.
☩Spiritual Application
Jesus declared that false religious leaders who do not enter the sheepfold by the door are 'thieves and robbers.' He cleansed the Temple, accusing those who commercialized worship of making it 'a den of robbers.' These uses expose the spiritual robbery of those who exploit religious position for selfish gain.
Related Verses12 mentions
See Also
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Robber," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. IX (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.James Orr (ed.), "Robber," in International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, vol. IV (Howard-Severance Company, 1915).
- 3.James Hastings (ed.), "Robber," in Dictionary of Christ and the Gospels, vol. II (T. & T. Clark, 1906–1908).