Definition: Therefore when they were gathered together, Pilate said unto them, Whom will ye that I release unto you? Barabbas, or Jesus which is called Christ?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Matthew 27:17. It’s a really important and somewhat surprising moment in the story of Jesus' trial. Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Basic Situation: Pilate is in Charge: Pilate was the Roman governor at the time. He was responsible for managing the prisoners in the jail where Jesus was being held. Pilate asks a Question: Pilate, acting on orders from Rome, asked Jesus a crucial question: “Who will you that I release unto you?” What’s Going On? Jesus is Being Tried: Jesus had been arrested and charged with various crimes – mostly because he was a Jewish man and challenging Roman authority. He was being accused of sedition, potentially even blasphemy. The Context is Crucial: The Romans wanted to quickly get rid of Jesus. They weren’t interested in a lengthy trial. They wanted a quick solution. “Barabbas or Jesus which is called Christ?” – It’s a Bit of a Twist This is the really important part. Pilate wasn't asking who he should release to . He was asking who he should release to , and he chose to release Barabbas, who was a known prisoner. However, then he added: “which is called Jesus Christ.” What does this mean? Jesus is the Key: Pilate was essentially saying that Jesus was the one who was important enough to be released. It’s a very deliberate choice by Pilate. It's a Symbolic Gesture: This isn't necessarily about Jesus being innocent. It’s a symbolic gesture of power and control. Pilate is asserting his authority and saying, "I am in charge, and I decide who gets to go free." Why is this significant? This verse is considered one of the most dramatic moments in the Gospels because: It Shows Roman Power: It highlights the immense power of Rome over Jesus and the Jewish people. It’s a Moment of Disbelief: The crowd was shocked! They didn't understand why Pilate would choose a notorious prisoner over Jesus. It Sets the Stage for Cruelties: This event is often seen as a turning point where the Romans began to show their cruelty, and it’s believed that this decision ultimately led to the execution of Jesus. In short, "Matthew 27:17" means Pilate chose to release Barabbas, but he also declared that Jesus was being called Christ, signaling a shift in power and a start of a darker period. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the historical context more deeply? Explore the theological significance of this passage?