I am Barabbas

By: Sarah Hogue, Director of Children’s Ministry and Member Formation

Many of us are familiar with the story of Barabbas.  It is found in all four of the Gospels during the accounts of Jesus’ arrest, trial, and crucifixion.   

Barabbas was a known criminal - a rebel, thief, and murderer.  He was already on “death row” when Jesus was arrested and put on trial.  There was a tradition that during Passover the Roman Govenor, Pontius Pilate, would grant full pardon to one criminal.  Pilate offered the people a choice: he could release Barabbas, a known criminal, or he could release Jesus, who he felt was innocent of any crime.  After being pressured by the Jewish leadership (who wanted Jesus to die), the crowd chose to have Barabbas released.   

This has always perplexed me.  How could they choose to set Barabbas free?  They knew the crimes he had committed.  This man had been a terror to the community.  Jesus, on the other hand, had been nothing but kind, compassionate, and helpful.  He offered miraculous healings to so many people!  I logically understand that it had to happen this way for God’s plan of salvation to take place, but I can’t wrap my mind around the crowd’s mentality.  How could they so easily be duped into demanding the blood of an innocent man – one who they recently welcomed to Jerusalem with cries of, “Hosanna!”?   

Recently, I became aware of a song by Josiah Queen called I am Barabbas.  These lyrics unlocked for me the true meaning and power of Barabbas’ release: 

“I am Barabbas. You took upon my cross. I was that prisoner. Till you bought my bond with blood… I am Barabbas, your friend.” 

In truth, I am Barabbas, and (if you are honest with yourself), you are too.  We are all that criminal, liar, gossip, and sinner who is freed because Jesus wasn’t.  We are all Barabbas.  Jesus died in our place, just as he died in Barabbas’ place.   

God’s plan is so perfectly woven that even in that moment of Jesus’ unjust trial and condemnation, He shows us that the purpose of the cross and resurrection is to set us free.  Praise God that Jesus was willing to die in the place of people like Barabbas – people like you and me!