The Greek word that John uses in 18:40 to describe Barabbas can mean “robber,” but it can also mean “revolutionary” or “insurrectionist.” We learn from Mark and Luke that Barabbas was a murderer as well. In other words, Barabbas had been arrested by the Romans because he was trying to overthrow Roman rule.
And what happens? Barabbas is freed, and Jesus is crucified.
Pontius Pilate releases a murderer and crucifies an innocent man.
Pilate knowingly sent an innocent man to die. Think about that.
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We are almost finished with the Gospel of Matthew! Two quick points on today's account of the burial of Jesus:
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