Chris Kaskel
Passage: Luke 23:13-26
Point: The story of Jesus’ death and resurrection is one of the most famous stories in all of human history. Even minor characters like Pilate, Herod, and Barabbas are names that people immediately recognize. In our passage today, we see the narrative unfold of Jesus being brought before Pilate. Luke has some unique details in his telling of the story, particularly about Barabbas. Generally it is understood that, in accordance with Jewish tradition, Pilate would allow one prisoner to go free and the other to be put to death. The crowds, of course, called for Barabbas to be released instead of Jesus. Luke, however, offers us the detail about Barabbas that he was a prisoner, guilty of starting an uprising and murder. Jesus is eventually charged with, and put to death for, causing an uprising and stirring up the masses—the same charge Barabbas was guilty of.
It’s interesting to see Barabbas in this light because it allows us to put ourselves in his shoes. Barabbas was clearly a guilty man. He is one of the people responsible for a violent uprising that lead to murder, and yet, he is pardoned, and Christ dies in his place. It is important when we read and hear these stories that we not remain a distant third party or some quiet observer. We need to allow ourselves to enter the story and to see how we, too, are guilty. Through our own actions and decisions, we, too, are guilty and not deserving of God’s grace and mercy. The wonderful and amazing thing is that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. He died in our place, paid the penalty that we all should have paid, and in doing so, made a way for us to be forgiven and have eternal life. God’s grace and mercy is available to all who seek it, no matter what they have done. Jesus has already paid the price.
Ponder: Think about the phrase, “while we were still sinners.” Jesus didn’t go to the cross and do what He did after some important prerequisites were met. How would you feel to be Barabbas and be released while an innocent man takes your place? Have there been other times in the Gospels where you have seen yourself portrayed in the story?
For Families: Right now in our Elementary classes, our memory verse is, “There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” Talk to your kids about how Jesus is our friend. He loves us so much that he took our place so that we could be forgiven and have eternal life. Who is your child’s best friend(s)? Ask your kids if there is anyone in their life that they would take a punishment for.
Fresh Air 