Matthew 27:20
Arabic Bible Life (Targamet El Hayah) (LA)
ولكن رؤساء الكهنة والشيوخ حرضوا الجموع أن يطالبوا بإطلاق باراباس وقتل يسوع.
What Does This Mean?
In this verse, the chief priests and elders are pressuring a crowd to choose Barabbas over Jesus for release. They want the people to demand that Barabbas is freed while Jesus is put to death.
Explained for Children
Imagine you're playing a game where two kids can be picked: one who did something really bad, and another who never hurt anyone. Some grown-ups tell others they should pick the bad kid instead of the good one. That's what happened here with Barabbas and Jesus.
Historical Background
Matthew wrote this account in the late first century AD for a primarily Jewish-Christian audience. This event took place during Passover, when there was a custom to release a prisoner chosen by the crowd.
Living It Out Today
In today's world, we sometimes face situations where peer pressure or manipulative leaders sway public opinion against someone who is innocent. It’s important to stand up for justice and truth, even if it means going against popular opinion.
Topics
justicemanipulationleadershippublic opinioninnocence vs guiltsacrifice
Related Verses
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the chief priests and elders persuade the crowd?
The chief priests and elders persuaded the crowd because they wanted to ensure that Jesus was condemned. They feared losing their power if Jesus, who had gained a significant following, was released.
What does this verse tell us about public opinion?
This verse shows how easily swayed public opinion can be when manipulated by influential leaders. It highlights the importance of making informed decisions rather than being led by popular sentiment alone.
How did the crowd respond to the persuasion of the chief priests?
The crowd was persuaded and requested Barabbas's release instead of Jesus, showing how their initial preference for Jesus could be changed through manipulation. This demonstrates the crowd's susceptibility to influence from authority figures.
What does this say about justice in Matthew’s account?
This verse illustrates a miscarriage of justice where an innocent person (Jesus) is condemned due to public pressure and manipulation. It underscores the challenges faced by those who stand for truth and righteousness against overwhelming odds.