Matthew 27:20
But the chief priests and elders persuaded the multitude that they should ask Barabbas, and destroy Jesus.
Matthew 27:20
The chief priests and elders “persuaded the multitude” to demand Barabbas’ release and Jesus’ crucifixion. This moment reveals the manipulation of crowds and the power religious authorities could wield to influence political outcomes. The priests’ strategy capitalizes on public sentiment, exploiting fear, religious zeal, and the crowd’s perception of security and order. It also exposes the fragility of public opinion when guided by spiritual leadership that prioritizes self-interest over justice. The crowd, shaped by those leaders, becomes a tool in a dangerous political game. The verse highlights the tension between truth and expedience—the leaders see Jesus as a threat to their authority, while the crowd’s vote is swayed by the perception of who could deliver national liberation. This dynamic is a sobering commentary on how communities can be complicit in injustice when leadership is driven by fear, envy, or personal gain.
Theologically, this scene demonstrates how religious leadership can mislead for power, illustrating the fallen human tendency to substitute human schemes for divine will. It underscores the need for faithful shepherds who lead with integrity and truth rather than political calculation. The choice of Barabbas over Jesus foreshadows the messianic paradox: true deliverance comes through humble obedience, not through violence or rebellion. The narrative invites readers to recognize the responsibility of communities to seek truth and justice, rather than capitulate to manipulation or fear.
For today, this verse serves as a warning against charismatic manipulation and mob mentality. Practical steps: evaluate leaders based on their commitment to truth, mercy, and nonviolence; resist pressure to take sides when justice is unclear; seek independent confirmation of claims before following the crowd. In daily life, consider how you participate in group dynamics that marginalize the vulnerable or promote expedient outcomes. Are you the kind of person who amplifies truth and love, even when it’s costly, or do you go along with the loudest voice? Pray for discernment to resist manipulation and to stand for what is right, even if it costs you popularity or security.
Cross-References: Jeremiah 17:9; James 3:14-16; Acts 5:38-39; Matthew 23:27-28