A Prisoner Called Barabbas - Matthew 27:16

Matthew the apostle wrote concerning Pilate, “Now at that feast the governor was wont to release unto the people a prisoner, whom they would”, and in chapter twenty-seven and verse sixteen of his book, Matthew wrote more of how, “they had then a notable prisoner, called Barabbas” where we read:

And they had then a notable prisoner, called Barabbas.

The verse reads, “And they had then a notable prisoner, ...” Matthew began words, “and they had then” which means “and at that time and moment the people knew of and were aware of” “a notable prisoner” which means “a marked, infamous, notorious and remarkable in a bad way captive and one who was bound in bonds”. Matthew shared how there was among the people in Jerusalem a certain “prisoner” who was well known by them.

The verse goes on to say, “... called Barabbas.” Matthew continued with the word, “called” or “named, affirmed and maintained as” “Barabbas” which means “son of a father or master” and was “a captive robber whom the Jews begged Pilate to release instead of Christ”. Matthew shared how “Barabbas” was a well-known “robber” among the people in Jerusalem and was “captive” and “held in prison” for his offenses.

When we meditate upon Matthew's words in this verse, we gain knowledge of this one named “Barabbas” which means, “son of a father or master”. “Barabbas” was a wicked evil doer among the people of Jerusalem, and because he was caught and arrested, he lived as a “prisoner” under Pilate's jurisdiction. We will learn more of “Barabbas” in the next few verses, but suffice it for now to know that Jesus was to be presented before the people alongside “Barabbas” for a choice to be made. All this was done so people might have a relationship with God through Jesus Christ His Son, and those who are wise will believe and trust in Jesus as their personal “Savior and Lord”.

Next time Matthew shares how Pilate asks, “whom will you that I release unto you? Barabbas or Jesus?”, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

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