New Testament
Matthew 27:26
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So Pilate released Barabbas to them. He had Jesus flogged and then handed him over to be crucified.
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Then released he Barabbas unto them: and when he had scourged Jesus, he delivered him to be crucified.
What Matthew 27:26 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a pivotal moment in the trial of Jesus. Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor, is faced with a choice between releasing Jesus or a notorious prisoner named Barabbas. The crowd, influenced by the religious leaders, demands the release of Barabbas, a criminal. Pilate, wanting to appease the crowd, releases Barabbas and orders Jesus to be flogged, a brutal punishment involving whipping. After the flogging, Jesus is handed over to be crucified. This moment highlights the injustice faced by Jesus, as an innocent man is punished while a guilty man is set free. It also reflects the theme of sacrifice, as Jesus willingly accepts his fate for the sake of humanity. The choice made by the crowd serves as a reminder of the consequences of mob mentality and the importance of standing for what is right, even when it is unpopular.
How to apply Matthew 27:26 to your life
This verse challenges us to consider the choices we make and the influences around us. It reminds us to stand firm in our beliefs and values, even when faced with pressure from others. We should strive to choose what is right over what is popular.
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: On Trial Before Pilate (Matthew 27:11–31)
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Jesus
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
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At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 27:26 mean?
Matthew 27:26 describes the moment when Pontius Pilate chooses to release Barabbas, a criminal, instead of Jesus, who is innocent. This decision leads to Jesus being flogged and ultimately crucified, highlighting the injustice of the situation.
What is the significance of Barabbas in Matthew 27:26?
Barabbas represents the choice between good and evil, as he is a notorious criminal released by the crowd while Jesus, who is innocent, is condemned. His release emphasizes the theme of injustice and the consequences of mob mentality.
How does Matthew 27:26 relate to the theme of sacrifice?
In Matthew 27:26, Jesus' willingness to accept punishment and crucifixion reflects the theme of sacrifice for the sake of humanity. His unjust treatment serves as a powerful reminder of the lengths he went to for redemption.
What lesson can we learn from Matthew 27:26?
Matthew 27:26 teaches us about the importance of standing firm in our beliefs, even when faced with societal pressure. It encourages us to make choices based on what is right rather than what is popular.
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