In this Bible study lesson on Matthew 27:11-26, we’ll look at Pilate’s role in the events leading up to the crucifixion of Jesus. Despite his hesitation and awareness of Jesus’ innocence, Pilate ultimately gave in to pressure. Ultimately, he let the crowd decide Jesus’ fate. The people chose to free Barabbas, a notorious criminal, and condemn Christ to the cross. This pivotal moment reveals the gravity of human choice. And, it shows the incredible sacrifice Jesus made for our redemption.
Crucify Jesus or Barabbas? Pilate Sends Jesus to be Crucified
Now Jesus stood before the governor, and the governor questioned Him, saying, “Are You the King of the Jews?”
And Jesus said to him, “It is as you say.”
And while the chief priests and elders questioned Him, He did not answer.
Then Pilate said to Him, “Do You not hear how many things they testify against You?”
And He did not answer him with regard to even a single charge, so the governor was quite amazed.
Now at the feast the governor was accustomed to release for the people any one prisoner whom they wanted.
At that time they were holding a notorious prisoner, called Barabbas.
So when the people gathered together, Pilate said to them, “Whom do you want me to release for you? Barabbas, or Jesus who is called Christ?”
For he knew that because of envy they had handed Him over.
While he was sitting on the judgment seat, his wife sent him a message, saying, “Have nothing to do with that righteous Man; for last night I suffered greatly in a dream because of Him.”
But the chief priests and the elders persuaded the crowds to ask for Barabbas and to put Jesus to death.
(The choice)
But the governor said to them, “Which of the two do you want me to release for you?”
And they said, “Barabbas.”
Pilate said to them, “Then what shall I do with Jesus who is called Christ?”
They all said, “Crucify Him!”
And he said, “Why, what evil has He done?” But they kept shouting all the more, saying, “Crucify Him!”
When Pilate saw that he was accomplishing nothing, but rather that a riot was starting, he took water and washed his hands in front of the crowd, saying, “I am innocent of this Man’s blood; see to that yourselves.”
And all the people said, “His blood shall be on us and on our children!”
Then he released Barabbas for them; but after having Jesus scourged, he handed Him over to be crucified. – Matthew 27:11-26
Pilot Washes His Hands and Spares Barabbas – Jesus is Convicted
Was Pilate a true politician?
Firstly, Pilate seemed more concerned about his reputation than acting justly with his decision. In other words, he was afraid of the crowd. Ultimately, his fear of public opinion prevented him from doing the right thing.
The Role of Barabbas
The other side of this story is Barabbas. He commited the very crime Jesus was accused of; leading a rebellion against the Roman government. Fact is, Barabbas was a member of the revolutionary group known as the Zealots, who were known for their anti-Roman views.
With this being the case, Barabbas became a hero to the Jews.
On the other hand, once they realized Jesus was not sent to overthrow the Romans as many thought on Palm Sunday, the people deserted Him.
Add this fact to the priests and religious leaders accusing Him of blasphemy and the lethal combination creates a mob.
People’s Choice
Let’s set the stage. Crowds are fickle and mobs seldom make the right decisions. So, they called for Barabbas’ release and the death of Christ. Ultimately, the people chose Barabbas and executed Jesus.
Jesus Redeems Barabbas
The Jews would have crucified Barabbas if he hadn’t been freed.
Essentially, Jesus paid the price for Barabbas’ crime. This act of sacrifice is a reminder of the power of Jesus’ forgiveness and mercy.
What about Us?
Just as Christ died for Barabbas’ crime, He died for us on the cross. Without regret, He took on our sins (crimes against God) at Calvary. But, on the third day, He rose again. And, 2,000 years later His Spirit still lives within Christians all over the world who accept Him as Savior.
Let’s celebrate Easter by honoring Christ’s life, death, and resurrection in honor of what He accomplished for us. Amen!
Love in Christ
– Bob
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