New Testament
Matthew 27:21
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, the Roman governor, Pontius Pilate, is presenting the crowd with a choice between two prisoners: Jesus and Barabbas.
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
The governor asked again, "Which of the two do you want me to release?" They shouted, "Barabbas!"
The governor answered and said unto them, Whether of the twain will ye that I release unto you? They said, Barabbas.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the Roman governor, Pontius Pilate, is presenting the crowd with a choice between two prisoners: Jesus and Barabbas. Barabbas was a notorious criminal, while Jesus was known for his teachings and miracles. The crowd's choice to release Barabbas instead of Jesus highlights the intense pressure and influence of the religious leaders and the mob mentality that can arise in such situations. This moment is significant as it illustrates the rejection of Jesus by the very people he came to save. It also foreshadows the suffering and crucifixion that Jesus would soon endure. The choice made by the crowd reflects the broader theme of humanity's tendency to choose sin and rebellion over righteousness and truth. This verse serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of our choices and the importance of standing firm in our beliefs, even when faced with societal pressure.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Matthew 27:21 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on the choices we make in our lives. Are we swayed by popular opinion, or do we stand firm in our convictions? It reminds us to seek truth and righteousness, even when it is unpopular or difficult to do so.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 27:21 mean?
Matthew 27:21 describes the moment when Pontius Pilate offers the crowd a choice between releasing Jesus or Barabbas, a criminal. The crowd chooses Barabbas, highlighting their rejection of Jesus and the influence of the religious leaders.
What is the significance of Barabbas in Matthew 27:21?
Barabbas represents the choice of sin and rebellion over righteousness, as the crowd chooses to free a notorious criminal instead of Jesus, who was innocent. This choice illustrates the theme of rejection and the consequences of societal pressure.
What does the crowd's choice in Matthew 27:21 reveal?
The crowd's choice to release Barabbas instead of Jesus reveals the power of mob mentality and the influence of leaders. It shows how easily people can be swayed to reject what is right in favor of popular opinion.
How does Matthew 27:21 relate to themes of choice and influence?
Matthew 27:21 emphasizes the theme of choice by presenting the crowd with two options, illustrating how external influences can lead to poor decisions. It serves as a reminder of the importance of making choices based on truth rather than pressure.

The Book of Matthew
Matthew 1: The Generation and Birth of Jesus Christ
The book begins with the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. It records the generations from Abraham to David, from David until the carrying away into Babylon, and from the carrying away into Babylon unto Christ, each being fourteen generations. The genealogy concludes with Jacob begetting Joseph, the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.
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