The Release of Barabbas
R. Jeffery, D. D. Matthew 27:15-18 Now at that feast the governor was wont to release to the people a prisoner, whom they would.… I. It illustrates THE EVASION OF PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY. We always admire courage in the abstract. Look at the position of Pilate! "I must sentence, gentlemen, you choose the culprit." We may be doing this same thing. How often we allow others to determine our duty. "If my wife would be religious I would." "Will you go if I will?" Alone you must die and give an account to God. II. THE CONTROLLING POWER OF PREJUDICE OVER MORAL APPROBATION. They were to forget all the munificence of Jesus because He outraged their prejudices. III. The choice of Barabbas in the end EXALTS THE ETERNAL PRINCIPLES WHICH UNDERLIE THE GOVERNMENT OF GOD. The eternal plan of God is carried out in the death of Jesus. IV. THE ATTITUDE OF BARABBAS. Suppose he had refused release on the ground that it was not possible for him to live by the death of another. Some reject the substitution of Christ for themselves. (R. Jeffery, D. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: Now at that feast the governor was wont to release unto the people a prisoner, whom they would. WEB: Now at the feast the governor was accustomed to release to the multitude one prisoner, whom they desired.