New Testament
Luke 23:25
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, we see a pivotal moment during the trial of Jesus.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
He released the man they asked for — the one imprisoned for revolt and murder — and handed Jesus over to be dealt with as they wished.
And he released unto them him that for sedition and murder was cast into prison, whom they had desired; but he delivered Jesus to their will.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a pivotal moment during the trial of Jesus. The crowd had the opportunity to choose between releasing a notorious criminal, Barabbas, who was imprisoned for rebellion and murder, or Jesus, who was innocent. The crowd chose Barabbas, demonstrating the power of public opinion and the influence of the leaders who stirred them up. This decision highlights the injustice faced by Jesus, as he was handed over to be punished despite having committed no crime. The act of releasing Barabbas instead of Jesus symbolizes the rejection of good in favor of evil, a theme that resonates throughout the Gospels. This moment sets the stage for the events leading to the crucifixion, emphasizing the tragic irony of the situation where the innocent is condemned while the guilty is set free.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Luke 23:25 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of standing for what is right, even when faced with popular opinion. It challenges us to consider our choices and the influence of those around us. We should strive to seek truth and justice, even when it is unpopular.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 23:25 mean?
Luke 23:25 describes the moment when the crowd chose to release Barabbas, a criminal, instead of Jesus, who was innocent. This decision highlights the influence of public opinion and the injustice faced by Jesus as he was handed over to be punished.
What is the significance of Barabbas in Luke 23:25?
Barabbas represents the choice between good and evil, as the crowd chose to free a known criminal over an innocent man. His release symbolizes the rejection of righteousness in favor of wrongdoing.
What does the phrase 'delivered Jesus to their will' mean in Luke 23:25?
The phrase 'delivered Jesus to their will' indicates that Jesus was handed over to the crowd's demands for punishment, despite his innocence. It underscores the tragic outcome of the trial and the power of the mob.
What themes are present in Luke 23:25?
Key themes in Luke 23:25 include injustice, the impact of public opinion, the choice between good and evil, and the foreshadowing of Jesus' crucifixion. These themes resonate throughout the Gospels.

The Book of Luke
Luke 1: The Births of John the Baptist and Jesus Foretold
In the days of Herod, king of Judaea, a priest named Zacharias serves in the temple. He and his wife Elisabeth are both righteous but have no children because Elisabeth is barren, and they are both old. While Zacharias burns incense, the angel Gabriel appears to him and says Elisabeth will bear a son who is to be named John. The child will be great before the Lord, will drink no wine or strong drink, and will be filled with the Holy Ghost from his mother's womb. He will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. Zacharias asks how he can know this, since he and his wife are old. Gabriel says Zacharias will be unable to speak until these things come to pass because he did not believe.
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