Lent DaysSample

The Law of Moses clearly warns about mob violence (Exodus 23:2). Group dynamics and mass hysteria operate in a mob. Usually, damage is done before the truth is ascertained. And clever persons manipulate such groups for their own benefits.

Man has been gifted with free will. This will does not guarantee right choice nor does it give us freedom to make wrong choices. It is like a driving license. The license is to permit a person to drive lawfully and not for running over people. Similarly, free will is provided to take lawful decisions and not to exploit fellow human beings.

William Barclay comments about the mob’s action clearly. They chose lawlessness, instead of law. One who takes the sword shall fall by the same. Taking law into our own hands is a sin.

Secondly, he says that they chose war, hatred, violence, and bitterness. Instead of peace and love. Barabbas symbolized evil and Christ symbolized holiness. Men in darkness prefer darkness to light.

The reason for their choice could be ignorance and ungratefulness. Ignorance, because they could have been manipulated by the high priests. Christ’s ministry must have blessed many including some of their relatives. But they were ungrateful. This mob brought down the curse on themselves and their children.