Definition: And he released unto them him that for sedition and murder was cast into prison, whom they had desired; but he delivered Jesus to their will.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Luke 23:25. It’s a really important and complex part of the story of Jesus’ trial and execution. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Jesus was accused: In the early days of his ministry, some Jewish people (the Pharisees) were angry with Jesus because he challenged their religious rules and teachings. They thought he was being rebellious and disruptive. They wanted him punished: They wanted to put him in jail for a long time – essentially, they wanted to punish him severely. He was cast into prison: Jesus was arrested and thrown into a jail. They desired his punishment: The Jewish people wanted this punishment to be harsh. They believed it would make them feel better about their anger towards Jesus. But he was delivered to their will: This is the key part! Jesus was released from prison, and… they decided to use him as a tool to their purposes. What does this mean? It’s a really strange and unsettling phrase. It suggests that Jesus wasn't just punished for what he did; he was deliberately placed in a situation where he could be used against his followers. It implies that the Jewish leaders were manipulating events to their advantage. Here's a simplified way to think about it: Jesus was given a chance to show them that he wasn’t just a good teacher but also capable of causing trouble. The leaders seized this opportunity and made him a pawn in their game – a target for their anger and judgment. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a warning against political manipulation and the dangers of seeking power through violence. It's a reminder that people can be tricked and used to do harm. --- Do you want me to explain any of these aspects in more detail? For example, would you like to know: Why this story is significant in Christian theology? What the meaning of “delivered to their will” might imply?