Luke 23:21 meaning
In an intense moment of political maneuvering, the relentless cry of the crowd erupts as they demand the crucifixion of Jesus instead of Barabbas, a known criminal. This incident starkly illustrates the depravity of the masses, swayed by their leaders’ manipulation. Pilate, despite recognizing Jesus's innocence and seeking to release Him, ultimately capitulates to the pressure. His repeated appeals for rationality fall on deaf ears, highlighting not only the public's moral failure but also the fragility of justice in the face of popular demand.
As we reflect on this scene, we are called to consider the implications of peer pressure and the importance of standing firm in what is just, even when it is unpopular. The phrase that echoes through history, “Crucify Him! Crucify Him!”, forces us to confront the dark choices made by those who favored injustice over righteousness. In this trial, the cumulative weight of human sinfulness reveals the necessity of Jesus’s sacrificial role, with profound theological ramifications concerning our own choices today. This poignant moment is found in Luke 23:21.
This quick synopsis was AI autogenerated utilizing existing TheBibleSays commentaries as the primary source material. To read a related commentary that has been fully developed, see the list below. If there is an issue with this summary please let us know by emailing:[email protected]
Deeper Commentary Covering this Verse:
- Luke 23:18-21 meaning. The Crowd Chooses Barabbas: The crowd responds to Pilate’s offer to use the governor’s "Passover Pardon" on Jesus by shouting at Him to give them Barabbas instead. Barabbas had been imprisoned for insurrection and murder. Pilate wanted to release Jesus and tries to persuade the crowd again, but they kept on calling out—"Crucify, crucify Him!" This event is part of the third phase of Jesus’s Civil Trial. This phase is called: "Pilate’s Judgment."
Other Relevant Commentaries:
- Luke 23:22 meaning. Pilate's Third Attempt to Release Jesus: Pilate attempts to release Jesus a third time and asks the crowd (who is demanding Jesus's crucifixion) "Why, what evil has this man done?" No response is recorded. Pilate then reiterates Jesus's innocence and tells the crowd that he will punish Him (by Roman flogging) before releasing Him. This event is part of the third phase of Jesus's Civil Trial. This phase is called: "Pilate's Judgment."
- Luke 23:23-25 meaning. The Crowd Prevails and Pilate's Verdict: The crowd was insistently loud in demanding that Jesus be crucified. Eventually their voices began to prevail so that Pilate granted their wishes. He released Barabbas for them, but gave Jesus over to their murderous will. This passage concludes Luke's account of the third and final phase of Jesus's Civil Trial. This phase is called: "Pilate's Judgment."
- Luke 23:8-12 meaning. Herod Antipas judges Jesus: When Jesus first arrives in Herod Antipas's court, the tetrarch is greatly pleased because he has been wanting to see the miracle worker perform a sign. When Jesus remains completely silent, Herod's demeanor shifts to contempt and he leads his court in mocking Jesus, dressing him in a fine robe as a joke, and then returns Him to Pilate. This is the second phase of Jesus's Civil Trial. It is known as Jesus's Audience before Herod Antipas.
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