Definition: But the other answering rebuked him, saying, Dost not thou fear God, seeing thou art in the same condemnation?
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Luke 23:40. It’s a really important and somewhat unsettling verse. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: Jesus is being addressed after he was put to death. He’s being questioned about his suffering, and some people are saying that he shouldn’t be feeling fear. This verse is a direct response to that question. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “But the other answering rebuked him…” – This means someone else is raising up and challenging Jesus. It’s like someone is saying, "You’re not really suffering as much as you think!" “…saying, Dost not thou fear God?” - This is the core of the question. “Dost not thou fear God?” – It's a classic question from religious traditions. It means, "Are you worried about what will happen to you?" The word “dost” is a formal way of saying “you.” “Seeing thou art in the same condemnation?” - This is where it gets deeper. “Condemnation” means being judged or punished for something wrong. Jesus was put to death – he's been marked as guilty of a sin. The phrase "seeing thou art in the same condemnation" means that he (Jesus) believes his suffering is just as bad as what happened to others who were wrongly accused and punished. It’s a sense of shared punishment. So, What Does It Mean? The verse expresses a feeling of deep sorrow and injustice. Jesus knew he was facing a terrible fate – being executed. He's acknowledging that his suffering feels like the same kind of pain and judgment as others who were punished for their sins. It’s a powerful image: It suggests that even though Jesus is innocent of sin, he feels the weight of the punishment he’s enduring. It highlights the idea that suffering can feel connected to something larger than just the individual – it connects us with the consequences of wrongdoings. Important Note: This verse often raises questions about justice and how we understand suffering in our lives. --- Do you want me to: Explain this passage further? Explore a specific aspect of the verse (like its historical context)?