The Innocent for the Guilty – Matthew’s Gospel, chapter 27 verses 11 to 26
26 Then he released Barabbas to them. But he had Jesus flogged, and handed him over to be crucified.
Matthew 27:26 New International Version – UK (NIVUK) Holy Bible, New International Version® Anglicized, NIV® Copyright © 1979, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
Substitution
Barabbas or Jesus?
The Guilty One
A notorious prisoner, a rebel and a murderer.
The Innocent One
“Don’t have anything to do with that innocent man.” (The governor’s wife, verse 19)
“Why, what crime has he committed?” (The Roman governor, verse 23)
The Silent One
7 He was oppressed and afflicted,
Isaiah the Prophet 53:7 (700BC)
yet he did not open his mouth;
he was led like a lamb to the slaughter,
and as a sheep before its shearers is silent,
so he did not open his mouth.
The Crucified One
Barabbas released – the one who took others’ lives (the middle cross had his name)
Jesus crucified – the one who gives his life for others.
18 For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God.
1 Peter 3:18
A Choice
- Jesus took Barabbas’ place.
- Jesus took your place.
- Have you seen that you too are Barabbas?
