What is the meaning of Matthew 27:16?

At that time

Matthew sets the scene during the Passover season, the climactic hour of Jesus’ earthly mission (Matthew 26:2).

• Passover reminded Israel of deliverance from bondage—pointing forward to the ultimate deliverance Jesus is about to accomplish (1 Corinthians 5:7).

• The timing shows God’s sovereign orchestration; nothing is accidental (Acts 2:23).

• Pilate’s annual custom of releasing a prisoner “at the feast” (John 18:39) is already in motion, preparing the stage for choice and substitution.

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they were holding

Barabbas is under Roman arrest, not merely questioned.

• Rome’s custody underscores the seriousness of his crimes (Mark 15:7).

• “Holding” contrasts sharply with Jesus, who is bound though innocent (John 18:12), revealing the injustice unfolding.

• The authorities think they control the situation, yet Scripture shows God using their actions to fulfill prophecy (Acts 4:27-28).

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a notorious prisoner

Barabbas is infamous, well-known for violence.

• Mark 15:7 and Luke 23:19 report “insurrection” and “murder,” signaling capital offenses.

• His notoriety heightens the scandal when the crowd prefers him over Jesus (Acts 3:14-15).

• Spiritually, Barabbas personifies the sinner—guilty, condemned, unable to free himself—while Jesus, the spotless Lamb, takes his place (Isaiah 53:12).

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named Barabbas

The Gospel writers repeatedly contrast two men: Barabbas and Jesus.

• John 18:40 notes that Barabbas “had been an insurrectionist,” emphasizing rebellion, whereas Jesus submits to the Father’s will (Philippians 2:8).

• Pilate juxtaposes them, forcing the crowd to choose between a taker of life and the Giver of life (John 10:10).

• When Barabbas walks free and Jesus is led to the cross, the substitutionary nature of Christ’s sacrifice is vividly displayed (2 Corinthians 5:21; 1 Peter 3:18).

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summary

Matthew 27:16 introduces Barabbas to spotlight a dramatic exchange: a notorious, guilty rebel is released while the righteous Son of God is condemned. The timing at Passover, Roman custody, Barabbas’s infamous record, and his specific identification all weave together to magnify God’s redemptive plan—showing how Jesus willingly takes the place of the sinner so the sinner can go free.