Matthew 27:20 - Now the chief priests and the elders persuaded the multitudes to ask for Barabbas, and destroy Jesus.

Generated Verse: Matthew 27:20

What does "Matthew 27:20" mean?


This verse from Matthew 27:20 describes a pivotal moment in the trial of Jesus before Pontius Pilate. Let's break it down:

"Now the chief priests and the elders...": These were the Jewish religious leaders who were opposed to Jesus and sought to have him killed. They held significant power and influence within the Jewish community.

"...persuaded the multitudes...": This means that the chief priests and elders actively worked to convince the crowds of people present to take a specific action. They used their influence, possibly through propaganda, manipulation, and stirring up emotions, to sway the crowd.

"...to ask for Barabbas...": Barabbas was a known criminal, likely a robber and insurrectionist, who was imprisoned at the time. It was customary during Passover for the Roman governor to release one prisoner, and Pilate offered the crowd a choice: Jesus or Barabbas.

"...and destroy Jesus.": This indicates that the chief priests and elders wanted the crowd to demand Jesus's execution. The word "destroy" implies a desire for Jesus's complete removal and obliteration.

In essence, the verse means that the Jewish religious leaders actively and successfully manipulated the crowd to demand the release of a criminal (Barabbas) and the execution of Jesus. This highlights the manipulation and injustice that led to Jesus's crucifixion.

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