Pilate is conflicted about what to do with Jesus. He is “greatly amazed,” but he’s not captivated or committed enough to put his neck on the line.

Pilate knows the religious leaders are using him because they just want Jesus out of the picture. As a last resort to potentially release Jesus, he introduces the “Passover Pardon” and presents Barabbas to the people.

The choice that was set before them is the same choice that is set before us: Which Jesus do we really want? Salvation by the sword over salvation by the cross.

“The permanent contribution of the Barabbas story is its teaching that the church’s main trial in every age will be her choice of the Jesus she wants.” [Bruner]

Jesus, who is innocent, is going to the cross instead of Barabbas, who is guilty. This is an incredible picture of the gospel. The question is how will we respond to Jesus?

Grow Group Discussion Questions
- What did God say to you during our Sunday gathering?
- How do the different characters in this passage respond to Jesus? How do we see ourselves in them and what can we learn from that?
- How are we tempted to choose a “different Jesus” than the true, biblical Jesus?
- How does this story highlight the beauty of the gospel message?
- From your group time, what is an idea or two from your discussion that you can work to apply this week?