In the four Gospels we read of the account of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ’s betrayal, trial, death, burial, and resurrection. As I have read of His trial countless times over the years, I have often though of Barabbas.
According to Matthew 27:16 He is an insignificant individual to us until Jesus’ trial before Pilate, though he was very well known or significant to the people of Jesus’ day.
The Word of God shares the following about him. First, he was an insurrectionist or seditionist, which means he was not only against the government establishment over him, but he took steps to overthrow it in Mark 15:7 and Luke 23:18-19. Secondly, He was a murderer (Mark 15:7; Luke 23: 18-20). Thirdly, he was a robber (John 18:40). He was caught and placed in prison awaiting his execution. He now finds himself in the midst of Jesus trial with a possible opportunity of being released from prison and freed from his crimes, though totally unworthy of it.
I have to believe that Barabbas would never have thought the Jewish crowd on that day would ever choose his release over a totally innocent man – the Lord Jesus Christ.
Barabbas name means “son of the father.” And he who was not a son of the Heavenly Father by salvation through faith in Jesus Christ, Now was being freed so that He (Jesus), who was the only begotten Son of the Father, could take his (Barabbas) place in death.
The Word of God instructs us that Jesus came to die for all men, and in doing so, became sin for us, Though He Himself was without sin, so we might be made righteous by Him through faith (II Corinthians 5:21).
As you think of Barabbas as he was granted freedom that he did not deserve, think of yourself being unworthy of God’s mercy granted to you at Jesus Christ’s expense (Romans 6:23).
Have you accepted His gift of salvation offered to you?
Your eternity hinges upon it.
Think about it.
