Jesus or Barabbas!

Jesus’ Life: Chapter 18 – The Passion And Death Of Jesus

Time: Good Friday: – Approximately 8.30am

The Jews were in no mood to accept Jesus’ scourging in exchange for his death by crucifixion. They also probably recognised Pilate’s weak leadership. Pilate knew Jesus was innocent and he wanted to do what was right, release Jesus, but he seemed afraid to contradict the aggressive demands of the Jewish leaders, chief priests and elders!

Pilate then attempted to use the traditional Passover festive custom of releasing a prisoner to his advantage. He offered the assembled crowd of Jews outside his court, the choice of having either Barabbas, a notorious prisoner, released or Jesus.

Barabbas was a rebel and had been imprisoned for murder and revolt against the state; everything that Jesus wasn’t!

Encouraged by Pilate’s inaction, the chief priests and elders mingled with the crowds and persuaded them to ask for Barabbas’ release and Jesus’ crucifixion. So, when Pilate said to them, “Which of the two do you want me to release for you?” they shouted, “Barabbas”.

Pilate’s plan had failed and when he further inquired, “What should I do with Jesus,” the crowd replied, “Crucify him!” Pilate answered, “Why? What wrong has he done?” but the crowd shouted more insistently, “Crucify him!” (Matthew 27:22-23)

[Matthew also tells us that while Pilate was, “sitting on the judgment seat,” his wife sent him a message saying, “Have nothing to do with that innocent man; I have suffered greatly as a result of a dream about him today”. (Matthew 27:19)] (Matthew 27:15-23, Mark 15:6-14, Luke 23:17-23, John 18:39-40)