Matthew 27:15 – “Now it was the governor’s custom at the festival to release a prisoner chosen by the crowd.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse introduces a significant moment during Jesus’ trial before Pilate. It describes a customary practice during the Passover festival in which the Roman governor would release one prisoner to the Jewish people, chosen by popular demand. This practice was likely intended to pacify the crowd and maintain order during a time of heightened national and religious fervor.
The mention of this custom sets the stage for the choice between Jesus and Barabbas. While Jesus is innocent and has done no wrong, the crowd ultimately chooses to release Barabbas, a known criminal, instead of Jesus. This decision underscores the rejection of Jesus by the people He came to save.
Historical Context
The Passover festival was one of the most important events in the Jewish calendar, commemorating God’s deliverance of Israel from slavery in Egypt. The festival drew large crowds to Jerusalem, and tensions often ran high under Roman rule. To maintain peace, the Roman governor used this custom to curry favor with the people.
Barabbas, the prisoner later introduced in the narrative, was a rebel and murderer (Mark 15:7). By offering to release either Jesus or Barabbas, Pilate sought to give the people an opportunity to choose justice. However, this moment revealed the deeper spiritual blindness of the crowd, as they called for Jesus’ crucifixion and demanded the release of a criminal.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights the contrast between human choices and God’s sovereignty. While the crowd’s decision to reject Jesus was sinful, it was also part of God’s plan for salvation. Jesus’ death was necessary to atone for humanity’s sin, and even this act of injustice served a greater purpose in God’s redemptive plan.
Theologically, this verse also emphasizes Jesus’ role as the true Passover Lamb. Just as the original Passover in Egypt required the blood of a lamb for deliverance, Jesus’ sacrifice would bring ultimate deliverance from sin and death.
Literary Analysis
The verse serves as a turning point in the narrative, introducing the custom of releasing a prisoner to the crowd and setting up the climactic choice between Jesus and Barabbas. The mention of this practice creates dramatic tension and foreshadows the rejection of Jesus.
The reference to “the festival” ties this moment to the themes of Passover—deliverance, sacrifice, and redemption. The irony is clear: while the people celebrated a festival of freedom, they rejected the one who came to bring true spiritual freedom.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Exodus 12:21-27 – Describes the institution of the Passover and the deliverance of Israel from Egypt.
- John 1:29 – John the Baptist calls Jesus “the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.”
- Acts 2:23 – Peter explains that Jesus was handed over according to God’s deliberate plan and foreknowledge.
- Mark 15:7 – Describes Barabbas as a rebel and murderer.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse is a reminder of the human tendency to reject God’s truth and choose what seems more convenient or appealing. The crowd’s choice to release Barabbas instead of Jesus challenges us to reflect on our own decisions and whether we prioritize God’s will or worldly desires.
It also encourages believers to trust in God’s sovereignty, even when circumstances seem unjust or confusing. Just as God used the rejection of Jesus to accomplish His plan for salvation, He can work through difficult situations in our lives for His purposes.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is evident in how He allowed this moment of injustice to serve a greater purpose. Jesus’ rejection by the crowd and His eventual crucifixion demonstrate the depth of God’s love for humanity. He willingly endured rejection and suffering to provide a way for sinners to be reconciled to Him.
This verse also reminds us of God’s patience and mercy. Despite humanity’s tendency to choose wrongly, God continues to offer His love and grace through Jesus.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse underscores Jesus’ role as the ultimate sacrifice for sin. While the crowd chose to release Barabbas, a guilty man, Jesus took Barabbas’ place, symbolizing how He takes the place of all sinners. His willingness to endure rejection and suffering reflects His love and commitment to fulfilling God’s plan of redemption.
Jesus’ connection to the Passover festival also highlights His identity as the Lamb of God, whose sacrifice brings true deliverance and freedom for those who believe in Him.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What does this verse teach you about the choices people make when faced with Jesus and worldly alternatives?
- How can you trust in God’s sovereignty, even when faced with situations that seem unjust or confusing?
- How does the contrast between Jesus and Barabbas challenge you to reflect on the nature of grace and forgiveness?
- What does this verse reveal about Jesus’ love and willingness to take the place of sinners? How does that impact your faith?