“So Pilate decided that their demand should be granted. He released the man who had been thrown into prison for insurrection and murder, for whom they asked, but he delivered Jesus over to their will.” (Luke 23:24-25)
Jesus’ innocence was evident. So was the demand of the Jews. This put Pilate in a difficult situation, for he was anxious to remain in favor with the Jewish leaders. He tried to find a middle ground by punishing Jesus and then releasing Him. But the gathered crowd, incited by their leaders, loudly protested this. Even the suggestion that Jesus be pardoned because of the Passover, as was apparently the custom, did not meet with approval.
Instead of Jesus, Barabbas was released. He had caused a riot and killed someone, and so was justly condemned. Yet he was given freedom, and Jesus the death penalty. How incredibly unfair!
This detail in the story takes on deep significance when we realize that we are actually in Barabbas’ shoes. We too are guilty before God. Probably not because of rebellion and murder, but there are plenty of other sins to mention. We have earned punishment, even the death penalty, because mankind disobeyed the Lord. Since then, everyone’s heart is sinful and we live in rebellion against our Creator.
But Jesus has taken our place. He died for us. We can go free! That is not a fair exchange. That is pure grace.
Do you consider yourself a guilty sinner? Have you already accepted God’s offer of an “exchange”?
Image by James Tissot Collection (Brooklyn Museum), available on the website of Free Bible Images