Knowing The Word in Matthew 27:15-23

The Crowd Chooses Barabbas

15 Now at the feast the governor was accustomed to release for the crowd any one prisoner whom they wanted. 16 And they had then a notorious prisoner called Barabbas [who had yet to be condemned]. [The name Barabbas means “Son of Abbas,” which sounds like “Son of the Father.”] 17 So when they had gathered, Pilate said to them, “Whom do you want me to release for you: Barabbas, or Jesus who is called Christ?” 18 For he knew that it was out of envy that they had delivered him up. [Pilate knew the charges against Jesus were false, but he was rather inept thinking that the crowd would choose his candidate for amnesty. After all he represented the occupying power and Barabbas was likely a freedom fighter.] 19 Besides, while he was sitting on the judgment seat, his wife sent word to him, “Have nothing to do with that righteous man, for I have suffered much because of him today in a dream.” [Even a pagan woman, who is open to the voice of God in a dream, knows of Jesus’ innocence, unlike the Jewish leaders who are deaf.] 20 Now the chief priests and the elders persuaded the crowd to ask for Barabbas and destroy Jesus. [Before there was a distinction between the crowd and the leaders. Now they are united.] 21 The governor again said to them, “Which of the two do you want me to release for you?” And they said, “Barabbas.” 22 Pilate said to them, “Then what shall I do with Jesus who is called Christ?” They all said, “Let him be crucified!” 23 And he said, “Why, what evil has he done?” But they shouted all the more, “Let him be crucified!”