Matthew 27:17 – “So when the crowd had gathered, Pilate asked them, ‘Which one do you want me to release to you: Jesus Barabbas, or Jesus who is called the Messiah?'”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse captures a dramatic moment in Jesus’ trial before Pontius Pilate. Pilate presents the crowd with a choice between two men: Barabbas, a notorious criminal, and Jesus, who is called the Messiah. Pilate’s question forces the people to make a decision that reveals their values and priorities.
By juxtaposing Barabbas with Jesus, Pilate likely hoped the crowd would choose to release Jesus, whom Pilate considered innocent (Matthew 27:24). However, the chief priests and elders influenced the crowd to call for Barabbas’ release and demand Jesus’ crucifixion (Matthew 27:20).
Historical Context
This scene takes place during the Passover festival, a time when Jerusalem was filled with pilgrims and tensions were high under Roman rule. The custom of releasing a prisoner during Passover was a gesture by Roman authorities to appease the Jewish population and maintain order during the festival.
Barabbas, described as a rebel and murderer (Mark 15:7; Luke 23:19), represented the kind of violent resistance to Roman rule that some Jews supported. In contrast, Jesus’ message of peace and His claim to be the Messiah challenged both the Jewish leaders’ authority and Roman political power.
Pilate’s question, highlighting Jesus as “the Messiah,” underscores the religious and political tensions surrounding Jesus’ trial. The people were faced with a choice that had profound spiritual implications.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights the human tendency to reject God’s truth in favor of worldly desires or expectations. The crowd’s decision to release Barabbas instead of Jesus reflects humanity’s sinful nature and resistance to God’s plan.
Theologically, the moment points to the substitutionary nature of Jesus’ sacrifice. Barabbas, a guilty man, was set free while Jesus, the innocent one, was condemned. This act symbolizes the greater truth of the gospel: Jesus took the punishment for our sins so that we could be set free (2 Corinthians 5:21).
Literary Analysis
The structure of the verse sets up a dramatic contrast between two “Jesuses”—Barabbas (whose name means “son of the father”) and Jesus, who is called the Messiah, the true Son of God. This parallel emphasizes the gravity of the choice the crowd is making.
Pilate’s role as the questioner adds to the tension, as he appeals to the crowd’s sense of justice while also navigating the political pressures of the moment. The inclusion of the title “the Messiah” reminds readers of Jesus’ true identity and mission, even as He faces rejection.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- John 1:11 – “He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him.”
- Isaiah 53:3 – Prophecy about the Messiah being despised and rejected by men.
- Luke 23:25 – Describes the release of Barabbas and the delivery of Jesus to be crucified.
- Romans 5:8 – “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse challenges Christians to reflect on their own choices. The crowd’s decision to release Barabbas over Jesus reveals how easily people can be swayed by fear, pressure, or misunderstanding. It reminds us to prioritize God’s truth over the influence of the world.
The story also serves as a powerful reminder of grace. Just as Barabbas was set free despite his guilt, believers are forgiven and freed from the penalty of sin through Jesus’ sacrifice.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is evident in this moment of rejection and substitution. Even as the crowd chose Barabbas over Jesus, God was using their decision to fulfill His plan of redemption. Jesus willingly endured this injustice out of love for humanity, demonstrating God’s commitment to saving sinners.
This verse also reflects God’s patience and mercy, as He works through human choices to bring about His purposes and offer salvation to all who believe.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse underscores Jesus’ role as the Savior who takes the place of sinners. Barabbas’ release is a vivid picture of substitution: Jesus, the innocent one, is condemned so that the guilty can go free. This act foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice Jesus would make on the cross for the sins of the world.
The title “the Messiah” reminds readers of Jesus’ true identity and mission. Even as He faces rejection, He remains the King and Savior who fulfills God’s promises.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does the crowd’s choice between Barabbas and Jesus challenge you to reflect on your own priorities and decisions?
- What does this verse teach about the nature of grace and the substitutionary work of Jesus on the cross?
- In what ways do we, like the crowd, sometimes choose worldly desires over God’s truth?
- How can reflecting on Jesus’ willingness to take the place of sinners deepen your gratitude for His sacrifice?