Have you ever meditated on the thief on the cross next to Jesus? In this week’s episode of More Than a Song, I explore Melanie Penn’s powerful track “Man On The Middle Cross,” a song sung from the perspective of that repentant criminal. His story—one of mockery turned to mourning, and ultimately to mercy—invites us to reflect deeply on the grace of salvation. Join me as we dive into Luke’s Gospel and uncover the beauty of redemption through the eyes of a man who received eternal life in his final moments.
This episode isn’t just a reflection on a song—it’s an invitation to step into the story of redemption. Through Scripture and song, we explore the contrast between mourning and mocking at the cross, the transformation of a hardened criminal into a redeemed soul, and the stunning truth that salvation is a gift, not a reward. If you’ve ever wondered how grace reaches the most unlikely hearts, this episode will stir your spirit and point you to the Savior on the middle cross.
Key Points
- The thief’s perspective reveals grace. Melanie Penn’s song gives voice to the repentant criminal, highlighting the radical mercy of Jesus and the simplicity of salvation through faith.
- Mourning and mocking are central themes in Luke’s crucifixion account. These emotional responses reflect both the sorrow of loss and the rejection of truth, offering rich ground for reflection and study.
- The thief was a real person with a real encounter with Christ. Engaging Scripture with the understanding that its characters were real helps deepen our connection to the biblical narrative.
- The criminals were likely rebels, not petty thieves. Their crimes were serious—possibly insurrection—making the thief’s redemption even more astonishing and powerful.
- Jesus was treated like a criminal, though He was innocent. He fulfilled Isaiah’s prophecy by being “numbered with the transgressors,” showing His identification with sinners.
- Salvation is a free gift, not earned. Romans 6:23 reminds us that eternal life is given by grace, not merit—just as the thief received it in his final moments.
Scripture References
- Luke 23:32–43 – The account of the two criminals crucified with Jesus, including the repentant thief.
- Luke 22–24 – The broader context of the crucifixion, death, and resurrection of Jesus.
- Isaiah 53:12 – “He was numbered with the transgressors…” – a prophecy fulfilled in Jesus’ crucifixion.
- Romans 6:23 – “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
- Romans 3:23 – “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”
Bible Interaction Tool Exercises (BITEs)
- Read in Context. Don’t just read a single verse—read the chapter before and after to understand the full narrative and literary flow.
- Read and Listen to Scripture. Use audio versions of the Bible (like the YouVersion app) to hear the Word while driving, walking, or doing daily tasks. It helps reinforce understanding.
- Read Scripture Out Loud. Speaking the text slows you down and helps you absorb details you might miss when reading silently.
- Repetition. Revisit the same passage multiple times over several days. Repetition helps themes and truths emerge more clearly.
- Word Study. Dig into the original language of key words using tools like Logos Bible Software or BibleHub.com to uncover deeper meanings.
- Compare and Contrast. Look at how different characters or events are treated in Scripture. For example, compare how Jesus was treated like a criminal, though He was innocent.
- Remember the People Were Real. Engage with Scripture by imagining the real lives, emotions, and experiences of the people in the stories—like the thief on the cross.
“Our only hope is that we turn from mocking to mourning.”
Enjoy the official music video below.
More Than a Song Playlist
Additional Resources
- Download the free Episode Guide
- Story behind the song “Man on the Middle Cross” – Melanie Penn on Friday With Friends – Bonus Episode
- Complete lyrics to all of the songs on her album, The Rising – A Resurrection Album, with Scripture references for you to explore – A gift from Melanie Penn herself! Click Here for the PDF.
- Bible Interaction Roadmap Bible Study – videos and assignments that will equip you with habits you can use over and over in your own Bible Study – Learn More
- Learn more about my favorite Bible Study Software with a 30-day free trial and links to my favorite Bible resources – Logos Bible Software Affiliate Link
This Week’s Challenge
Read Luke 22-24 several times over several days. Make a list of every example of mourning. Make a list of every instance of mocking. Journal your observations and thoughts around both. Consider that the repentant criminal on the cross was a real person with a genuine experience of Christ and is truly in paradise with our Savior to this day. Believe in the Lord like this man and allow repentance to lead you to a right relationship and eternal salvation.
