Jesus or Barabbas? The Eternal Choice Between Redemption and Rebellion

John 18:39,40
 “But you have a custom that I should release someone to you at the Passover. Do you therefore want me to release to you the King of the Jews?” Then they all cried again, saying, “Not this Man, but Barabbas!” Now Barabbas was a robber.

Introduction: The Power of Choice
Every day, we are faced with choices—some small, like what to eat for breakfast, and some life-altering, like choosing between right and wrong. But few choices in history have been as significant as the one made by the crowd in Jerusalem: to release Barabbas, a criminal, instead of Jesus, the Son of God. This moment was not just a tragic misunderstanding or a politically motivated decision—it was a direct illustration of the gospel message.

The choice of Barabbas over Jesus is symbolic of humanity’s natural tendency to reject God’s ways. It forces us to ask ourselves: Are we making the same mistake in our daily lives? Are we choosing sin, comfort, or worldly desires over Christ? This devotional will take a deep look at this historic decision, the meaning of Jesus’ sacrifice, and how we, too, are given the choice to follow Him wholeheartedly.



Contextual and Historical Background
John 18:28–40 presents a dramatic courtroom scene. Jesus, having been betrayed by Judas, arrested, and interrogated, now stands before Pilate, the Roman governor of Judea. Pilate, struggling to find a legal reason to condemn Jesus, offers the crowd a choice: release Jesus, who has done no wrong, or release Barabbas, a known criminal. Shockingly, the people choose Barabbas.

Barabbas's name, meaning "son of a father," is a generic title—almost like saying "John Doe." In contrast, Jesus is the true Son of the Father, the Son of God. The exchange of Barabbas for Jesus is not just a political decision; it is a powerful symbol of substitution. Jesus took the place of a guilty man, just as He takes our place in bearing the punishment for our sins.

This choice was a reflection of the fallen nature of humanity. The people rejected the Savior in favor of someone who represented rebellion, crime, and earthly desires. We must ask ourselves: Are we doing the same today by choosing sin over obedience, selfish desires over surrender, or comfort over the call of Christ?


The Dialogue Between Pilate and Jesus
One of the most compelling aspects of this passage is the exchange between Pilate and Jesus. Pilate, a Roman official concerned with maintaining order, finds himself caught between political pressure and his own conscience. He asks Jesus, "Are you the King of the Jews?" (John 18:33). Jesus’ response is profound: "My kingdom is not of this world..." (John 18:36). This statement reveals that Jesus’ reign is spiritual, not political, challenging Pilate’s understanding of kingship.

Pilate then asks, "What is truth?" (John 18:38). This question, left unanswered by Jesus, highlights the governor’s internal struggle. Pilate is staring Truth in the face, yet he fails to recognize it. His hesitation and attempts to absolve himself of responsibility mirror how many people encounter Christ—seeing Him, questioning Him, yet ultimately rejecting Him out of fear or convenience.


Pilate’s Political Dilemma and the Offer of Barabbas
Pilate was under pressure from Jewish leaders who wanted Jesus executed. To avoid making a direct decision, he presented the crowd with a choice: Jesus or Barabbas. This was a common Roman practice during festivals, meant to appease the public. Pilate likely expected them to choose Jesus, knowing He was innocent. However, the religious leaders had stirred up the crowd, leading them to demand Barabbas' release instead.

This decision exposes the dangerous power of mob influence and the weakness of human nature under pressure. Pilate, despite knowing Jesus' innocence, prioritizes his political safety over justice. How often do we do the same—choosing what is convenient over what is right? Are we influenced by the voices around us instead of standing firm in the truth of Christ?

The dialogue between Pilate and Jesus is a stark reminder that every person must answer the question: Who is Jesus to me? Will I recognize Him as the King and Truth, or will I, like Pilate and the crowd, turn away in favor of something else?


Jesus’ Sacrifice Is for All
Sacrifice is often associated with great loss—giving up something of value for the sake of another. Jesus’ sacrifice, however, was the ultimate act of love. He gave up everything, including His very life, so that we might have eternal life.

A powerful modern example of sacrifice is the story of Charles Jackson French, a Navy sailor during World War II. After his ship was destroyed, he swam for hours through shark-infested waters, pulling a raft full of wounded soldiers to safety. His courage saved lives, just as Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross saves ours spiritually. But while French saved fourteen men, Jesus' sacrifice offers salvation to all who believe in Him.

Jesus' death was not just a tragic event—it was a divine exchange. He took on our sin, our punishment, and our guilt, so that we might be free. When the crowd chose Barabbas, they unknowingly illustrated the essence of the gospel: Jesus, the innocent one, takes the place of the guilty.

Jesus’ Body Was Prepared for Sacrifice
Hebrews 10:5 says, "A body hast thou prepared me." Jesus did not come into the world to simply teach or heal—He came to die. Every moment of His earthly life was leading to the cross. Consider the story of a father who lost his right arm in a car accident while shielding his son. Instead of mourning his loss, he rejoiced, knowing that his sacrifice had saved his child. This is a glimpse of God’s perspective: He sent Jesus not to be spared from suffering, but to endure it for our sake.


Only Jesus’ Sacrifice Would Suffice
The Old Testament system of animal sacrifices could only cover sin temporarily. Jesus, however, was the perfect sacrifice, fully satisfying the justice of God. Philippians 2:6-7 describes how Jesus, though equal with God, humbled Himself, taking on human form and submitting to death on a cross. His sacrifice was not just physical but deeply spiritual. He carried the weight of our sins, experiencing separation from the Father so that we never have to. His body—like ours—felt pain, hunger, exhaustion, and grief, yet He willingly endured it all for us.


Practical Application
The crowd chose Barabbas over Jesus, but we face similar choices every day. We may not shout, “Give us Barabbas!” but when we choose sin, comfort, or selfish desires over obedience to Christ, we’re making the same decision.

• What would you do if you knew today was your last day?
  When Jesus knew His time was short, He spent it serving others—washing His disciples’ feet, praying for them, and forgiving those who crucified Him. His example challenges us to live sacrificially and love deeply, even when it costs us something.
• Sacrifice and discipleship go hand in hand.
  Romans 12:1 calls us to present our bodies as living sacrifices. This means surrendering our plans, desires, and comforts for God’s greater purpose. It’s not always easy, but it’s always worth it.
• How can we rejoice in Jesus’ sacrifice?
  When we reflect on what Jesus has done for us, it fills us with gratitude and hope. His death wasn’t a tragedy; it was a triumph. Through the cross, we’re forgiven, redeemed, and set free.

Action Step
This week, take a moment to reflect on areas where you’ve been choosing “Barabbas” over Jesus. Is there a sin, distraction, or fear holding you back from fully surrendering to Him? Write down one specific way you can choose Jesus this week—whether it’s forgiving someone, stepping out in faith, or spending time in prayer.

Conclusion
Like Barabbas, we’ve all stood guilty. But Jesus took the punishment we deserved, offering us freedom and eternal life. The question remains: who will you choose—Jesus or the world? Make the choice that leads to life. Choose Jesus.


Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for taking my place on the cross. You endured pain, shame, and rejection so that I could be free. Forgive me for the times I’ve chosen sin over You. Help me to lay down my will and follow Your example of sacrificial love. This week, guide me to live in a way that reflects Your grace and truth. I choose You, Jesus, above all else. In Your name, amen.