“Give us Barabbas!” These were the chilling words of a crowd swayed by the chief priests (Mark 15:11). Barabbas, a known criminal was chosen over Jesus, the sinless Lamb of God. How could such a decision be made? How could a crowd, presumably composed of ordinary people, demand the release of a man guilty of rebellion and murder while calling for the crucifixion of the one who came to save them? It’s a question that reverberates through history, and sadly, it remains relevant to this day.
Do we, knowingly or unknowingly, choose evil over good? Are our decisions, like those of the crowd, influenced by selfishness, fear, or societal pressures? The chief priests, who were supposed to be spiritual leaders, manipulated the people. They had an agenda, one rooted in envy and fear of losing their authority. They stirred the crowd to reject truth and embrace a lie. And the people followed.
This tragic scenario is still reflected in our society today. Each day, through our choices and decisions, we echo the crowd’s cry: “Give us Barabbas!”
A Reflection of Our Hearts
Our decisions reveal the design of our minds and the condition of our hearts. When we choose selfishness over selflessness, convenience over conviction, and lies over truth, we are essentially asking for Barabbas. We avoid accountability, preferring to point fingers rather than examine our own faults. Being Christlike, truly embodying the love, humility, and truth of Jesus is challenging because it demands that we confront our pride and hypocrisy.
Many of us hide behind religion, mistaking outward acts for true faith. We claim to be Christlike, yet our actions contradict our claims. This hypocrisy blinds us to the truth, and when the truth is too uncomfortable, we crucify it. Why? Because the truth irritates our demons. It forces us to confront what we’d rather ignore.
Why Does the Crowd Want Barabbas?
Why did the crowd choose Barabbas? The answer lies in the influence of wicked men and the weakness of human nature. The chief priests exploited the crowd’s fears and uncertainties. Deep down, many in the crowd likely knew the truth about Jesus. Yet, they were too cowardly to stand against the tide. They chose the easier path, the path of conformity, influenced by an agenda that wasn’t their own.
This is a sobering reminder for us today. How often do we allow ourselves to be programmed by the agendas of others? How often do we follow the crowd instead of seeking the truth for ourselves? It begins in the heart and mind… A personal battlefield where the decision between truth and lies is made.
The Consequences of Choosing Barabbas
When we reject truth, the consequences ripple through our communities and society. Our unwillingness to be accountable and our tendency to prioritize personal gain over collective good leave our world in disarray. Lies, selfishness, and hypocrisy thrive when truth is silenced. The release of Barabbas and the crucifixion of Jesus symbolize this tragic exchange: evil is elevated while goodness is crucified.
Choosing the Truth
But there is hope. Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6). Choosing Him means choosing freedom, peace, and purpose. Here’s how we can ensure we choose truth over Barabbas:
- Develop a Personal Relationship with God
A personal relationship with Jesus is essential. It allows us to discern truth and avoid being manipulated by others’ agendas. Spend time in prayer and seek God’s guidance in all things. - Seek God’s Approval, Not Human Validation
Don’t live to please people. When we prioritize human approval, we compromise our values. Seek God’s approval above all else. - Understand and Apply Scripture
“Study to show yourself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15). A deep understanding of scripture helps us make wise decisions and avoid deception. - Pursue Spiritual Maturity
Grow in your faith. Spiritual maturity brings confidence and clarity, enabling you to stand firm in the truth even when it’s unpopular.
Conclusion
Barabbas represents the influence of wickedness and the ease of following the crowd. But Jesus represents truth, freedom, and life. Don’t allow yourself to be swayed by the agendas of others. Instead, build a relationship with Jesus and let Him guide your decisions. The crowd knew the truth, but they were too afraid to act on it. Don’t make the same mistake. Follow the truth, follow Jesus, and be set free. Remember, the truth may challenge us, but it will ultimately save us. Jesus saves! Choose Him today.
Comments (2)
Brittany Omolajasays:
January 5, 2025 at 9:12 pmI love this. I pray that we are freed from the need to follow the crowd or get caught up in what we think society expects of us. Instead, may we focus on doing what’s right and pleasing to God. I will take the steps you’ve shared and apply them to my everyday life.
Saltsays:
January 7, 2025 at 10:58 amThis is such a beautiful and instructive piece. Not only does it put us in check, it also gives practical steps that can be taken to change the narrative.