Emphasis Preaching Journal

The Gospels are often spiced with bits of irony to enhance their message. In describing the crucifixion of Jesus, all four evangelists note that two other men were executed with him, one on his right and one on his left. The placement of the two thieves' crosses sharply reminds the reader of the earlier request of two ambitious disciples (recorded in Matthew and Mark), asking that they might be placed in positions of honor in Jesus' kingdom, one on his right and the other on his left!
-- Bristow