During Passover, it was customary for the Roman governor to release one prisoner chosen by the people. Pilate brought out two men:

• Barabbas – a known criminal and rebel.

• Jesus – the innocent Son of God.

When asked, “Whom shall I release to you?” the people chose Barabbas and rejected Jesus.
This story exposes the human heart—when faced with truth and grace, people often choose comfort, sin, or the familiar instead of righteousness.

Sermon Flow / Outline:

1. A Question of Choice (v. 17)

Pilate’s question — “Whom will you have?” — echoes through time.
Every person must choose between Jesus and the world.
👉 Would you rather cling to sin or surrender to salvation?

2. A Picture of the Human Heart (v. 20–21)

The crowd, influenced by religious leaders, shouted, “Barabbas!”
They preferred a murderer over the Messiah.
We often do the same when we let pressure, pride, or fear guide our choices instead of truth.
👉 Would you rather please people or follow God?

3. A Reflection of God’s Grace (v. 21)

Barabbas walked free because Jesus took his place.
That’s the gospel: the guilty released, the innocent condemned.
Our salvation came through Christ taking our punishment.
👉 Would you rather live bound by guilt or walk free in grace?