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The Unjust Choice: Release Barabbas and Crucify Jesus

Gary Cox

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One of the most perplexing and controversial episodes in human history is the trial and crucifixion of Jesus of Nazareth. Among the many perplexing aspects of this event is the crowd's demand that the Roman governor, Pontius Pilate, release Barabbas and crucify Jesus. This choice raises important questions about the nature of justice, the power of the mob, and the enduring legacy of this fateful decision.

Release Barabbas and Crucify Jesus

by Neville Goddard

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	26 KB
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Print length	:	11 pages

Historical Context

To fully understand the significance of this choice, it is essential to consider the historical context in which it occurred. Roman rule in Judea was oppressive and resented by many Jews, who longed for independence and the restoration of the Davidic kingdom. Jesus' teachings and actions, particularly his claims to be the Messiah, were seen by many as a threat to Roman authority.

The Jewish religious leaders, particularly the Pharisees and Sadducees, were also opposed to Jesus. They viewed his teachings as heretical and his challenge to their authority as a threat to their power and influence.

The Trial

Jesus' trial before Pilate was deeply flawed and unfair. The charges against him were dubious and politically motivated, and Pilate himself was reluctant to sentence him to death. However, the crowd outside, whipped up by the Jewish leaders, became increasingly vociferous in their demand for Jesus' crucifixion.

Pilate attempted to appease the crowd by offering them the choice of releasing either Jesus or Barabbas, a notorious criminal. Barabbas, whose name means "son of the father," was a violent revolutionary who had been arrested for murder and sedition.

The Choice

The crowd's choice to release Barabbas and crucify Jesus was a complex and multifaceted one. Some were undoubtedly motivated by religious hatred, seeing Jesus as a heretic who deserved to die. Others were swayed by the political expediency of siding with the Jewish leaders and the Roman authorities.

However, there is also evidence to suggest that the crowd was swayed by the mob mentality, the powerful emotional contagion that can lead individuals to act in ways they would not otherwise consider. The crowd's growing anger and hatred of Jesus, whipped up by the Jewish leaders, created an atmosphere in which rational thought and compassion were replaced by blind rage.

The Crucifixion

Pilate, fearing a riot, ultimately gave in to the crowd's demands and sentenced Jesus to death by crucifixion. Jesus was scourged, crowned with thorns, and led to Golgotha, the place of execution.

The crucifixion was a horrific form of execution, designed to inflict maximum pain and humiliation on the victim. Jesus hung on the cross for several hours, enduring unimaginable agony before finally succumbing to death.

Enduring Legacy

The choice to release Barabbas and crucify Jesus has had a profound and enduring impact on human history. For Christians, the crucifixion is a central event in their faith, seen as the ultimate sacrifice of God's son to redeem humanity from sin.

The episode also serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of mob rule and the importance of upholding justice even in the face of overwhelming pressure. The crucifixion of Jesus is a tragic example of how easily justice can be subverted when the mob is allowed to prevail.

The choice to release Barabbas and crucify Jesus was a monumental injustice that has had far-reaching consequences. It is a sobering reminder of the fragility of justice and the power of the mob. The enduring legacy of this event is a call to uphold justice, even in the most difficult of circumstances.

Release Barabbas and Crucify Jesus

by Neville Goddard

4.8 out of 5