The One Who Walked Free

Matthew 27:16-26

All the people answered, “His blood is on us and on our children!

Symbol of the sinner: Barabbas represents humanity's sinful nature and the guilt that deserves punishment, much like the biblical figures who are subject to condemnation.

Substitutionary atonement: His release in place of Jesus illustrates the Christian doctrine that Christ, the innocent one, took the punishment for humanity's sins, allowing sinners to be set free. 

Contrast of innocence and guilt: The story highlights the contrast between Jesus, the innocent Messiah, and Barabbas, the guilty murderer and insurrectionist. Jesus was condemned to death while Barabbas was released.

A matter of choice: The crowd's choice to free Barabbas over Jesus is seen as a reflection of the human rejection of the Messiah in favour of a criminal, underscoring the themes of choice and the fulfilment of prophecy.