Matthew 27:16 - They had then a notable prisoner, called Barabbas.
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What does "Matthew 27:16" mean?
This verse, Matthew 27:16, sets the stage for a pivotal moment in the Passion narrative: the choice Pilate offers the crowd between Jesus and Barabbas. Let's break down what it means:
"They had then...": This refers to the Roman authorities, specifically Pontius Pilate, the governor of Judea.
"...a notable prisoner...": This emphasizes that Barabbas was not just any criminal. He was well-known, likely for serious offenses. The term "notable" suggests he had a reputation, whether infamous or notorious.
"...called Barabbas.": This identifies the prisoner as Barabbas. The name "Bar-Abbas" is Aramaic and means "son of the father" (Bar = son of, Abbas = father). Some scholars believe this might suggest he was seen as a figure representing rebellion against Roman authority.
Contextual Significance:
Legal Procedure: Pilate, as the Roman governor, had the authority to release a prisoner during Passover, a custom intended to appease the local population.
Moral Dilemma: Pilate knew that Jesus was innocent, but he was also aware of the political tensions and the potential for unrest if he didn't appease the crowd.
Foil to Jesus: Barabbas serves as a deliberate contrast to Jesus. Barabbas was a real criminal, guilty of violent crimes, while Jesus was innocent and preached peace. The crowd's choice highlights the rejection of true righteousness and the embrace of a figure associated with violence and rebellion.
Fulfillment of Prophecy: Some see the choice between Jesus and Barabbas as a fulfillment of prophecy, particularly the concept of a suffering servant who would bear the sins of others.
In essence, Matthew 27:16 introduces Barabbas as a significant character in the story, setting up a dramatic choice that reveals the crowd's preferences, Pilate's political calculations, and ultimately, the course of events leading to Jesus' crucifixion.
Matthew 27:16 - They had then a notable prisoner, called Barabbas.
What does "Matthew 27:16" mean?
This verse, Matthew 27:16, sets the stage for a pivotal moment in the Passion narrative: the choice Pilate offers the crowd between Jesus and Barabbas. Let's break down what it means:
"They had then...": This refers to the Roman authorities, specifically Pontius Pilate, the governor of Judea.
"...a notable prisoner...": This emphasizes that Barabbas was not just any criminal. He was well-known, likely for serious offenses. The term "notable" suggests he had a reputation, whether infamous or notorious.
"...called Barabbas.": This identifies the prisoner as Barabbas. The name "Bar-Abbas" is Aramaic and means "son of the father" (Bar = son of, Abbas = father). Some scholars believe this might suggest he was seen as a figure representing rebellion against Roman authority.
Contextual Significance:
Legal Procedure: Pilate, as the Roman governor, had the authority to release a prisoner during Passover, a custom intended to appease the local population.
Moral Dilemma: Pilate knew that Jesus was innocent, but he was also aware of the political tensions and the potential for unrest if he didn't appease the crowd.
Foil to Jesus: Barabbas serves as a deliberate contrast to Jesus. Barabbas was a real criminal, guilty of violent crimes, while Jesus was innocent and preached peace. The crowd's choice highlights the rejection of true righteousness and the embrace of a figure associated with violence and rebellion.
Fulfillment of Prophecy: Some see the choice between Jesus and Barabbas as a fulfillment of prophecy, particularly the concept of a suffering servant who would bear the sins of others.
In essence, Matthew 27:16 introduces Barabbas as a significant character in the story, setting up a dramatic choice that reveals the crowd's preferences, Pilate's political calculations, and ultimately, the course of events leading to Jesus' crucifixion.