Christ Not Barabbas

“At that time, they [the Romans] had a notorious prisoner called Barabbas. Therefore, when they [the Jewish leaders in Jerusalem] had gathered together, Pilate said to them, “Whom do you want me to release to you? Barabbas, or Jesus who is called Christ?” For he knew that they had handed Him over because of envy. The governor answered and said to them, “Which of the two do you want me to release to you?” [1]

“They [the crowd and leaders gathered at the hearing] said, “Barabbas!” Pilate said to them, “Shall I crucify your King?” The chief priests answered, “We have no king but Caesar!” Then he delivered Him to them to be crucified. Then they took Jesus and led Him away.” [2]

“The Roman legions surrounded the city [of Jerusalem] and began to slowly squeeze the life out of the Jewish stronghold. By the year 70, the attackers had breached Jerusalem's outer walls and began a systematic ransacking of the city. The assault culminated in the burning and destruction of the Temple that served as the center of Judaism.

In victory, the Romans slaughtered thousands. Of those sparred from death: thousands more were enslaved and sent to toil in the mines of Egypt, others were dispersed to arenas throughout the Empire to be butchered for the amusement of the public. The Temple's sacred relics were taken to Rome where they were displayed in celebration of the victory.” [3]

Preferring a criminal and Caesar over Christ did not yield a happy ending for the people of Jerusalem. I believe this principal is true for any nation.

“Lord Jesus, please grant the nations (and my nation of America) good discernment of who to follow and who to abandon for the good of all concerned. I especially pray this for our children, grandchildren, and our descendants to come.”

[1] Matthew 27:16-18, 21
[2] John 19:15-16
[3] http://www.eyewitnesstohistory.com/jewishtemple.htm