Matthew 27:44 - Exposition

The thieves also … cast the same in his teeth ( ὠνει ì διζον αὐτῷ , were reviling him ) . The mention of the penitent robber is found only in Luke ( Luke 23:39-42 ). It does not seem to have occurred in the traditional account followed by Matthew and Mark. Augustine thought that these synoptists used the plural for the singular, referring, in fact, to the impenitent malefactor. It is more likely that both the thieves at first joined the mob in their abuse and ribaldry, but that one, after a time, persuaded by the Divine patience and meekness of the Saviour, and awed by the gathering darkness, repented, confessed, and was forgiven.