of this passage and maybe the whole gospel of Luke is the overriding theme of forgiveness. Only Luke has included Jesus saying to his killers, Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing. (Luke 23:34). Luke is also the only one to have Jesus forgive one of the criminals on the cross after he repents his sins. Although not as smoothly written as some of Lukes passages, this version of the crucifixion is still the most popular in Christian church services every spring. Lukes writing style here appeals to the reader and really draws out a far more emotional reaction than the other gospel writers. The crucifixion periscope is a good picture of the entire gospel of Luke....
