How does Matthew 27:21 illustrate human nature's tendency to reject truth? The Scene Unfolds Matthew 27:21: “Which of the two do you want me to release to you?” asked the governor. “Barabbas,” they replied. Human Nature on Display • A clear, rational choice is presented: the innocent Christ or the violent rebel. • The crowd, stirred by religious leaders (v.20), chooses rebellion over righteousness, showcasing humanity’s inclination to suppress uncomfortable truth (Romans 1:18). • Emotion overrides evidence; Jesus’ miracles and sinless life are ignored, reflecting the heart’s deceitfulness (Jeremiah 17:9). Patterns Repeated in Scripture • John 3:19 – “Light has come into the world, but men loved darkness rather than light…” • Acts 3:14-15 – Peter reminds Israel, “You disowned the Holy and Righteous One and asked that a murderer be released to you.” • Isaiah 53:3 – “He was despised and rejected by men,” foretells this very moment. • 2 Timothy 4:3-4 – People will “turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths,” mirroring the crowd’s choice. Roots of Rejection • Sin-nature gravitates toward self-rule; releasing Barabbas symbolizes preferring worldly power over divine authority. • Fear of social cost: siding with Jesus risked alienation from leaders (John 12:42-43). • Short-term expedience: Barabbas meets a political desire for revolt; Jesus calls for repentance and surrender. Consequences Observed • Choosing Barabbas immediately frees a criminal but propels the nation toward judgment in A.D. 70—earthly decisions carry spiritual fallout. • The moment illustrates “calling evil good and good evil” (Isaiah 5:20). Christ’s Response • Silent submission (Matthew 27:12-14) magnifies the contrast between divine patience and human impulsiveness. • His sacrifice, though rejected by the crowd, becomes the means of redemption (1 Peter 2:24). Application for Today • Guard the heart: measure desires against Scripture’s clear testimony. • Resist crowd pressure: stand with truth even when culture lauds the opposite. • Remember the cross: Jesus endured rejection to offer acceptance to all who believe (John 1:11-12). |
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