Luke 23:20 meaning
In this dramatic moment of Jesus’ trial, we see the persistent attempts of Pilate to spare Jesus, amidst overwhelming pressure from the crowd and their leaders. Pilate's desire to release Jesus underscores the innocence of Christ, yet the clamor for His crucifixion grows increasingly relentless. This confrontation highlights the profound moral failure when justice is overshadowed by public opinion. It starkly contrasts Jesus, a figure of ultimate goodness, against Barabbas, a criminal guilty of rebellion and murder. The crowd’s choice reveals a tragic preference for a proven sinner over the sinless Savior.
Luke 23:20 illustrates Pilate's third appeal for Jesus' release, only for the officials to respond with the shouts of “Crucify him!” The verse paints a vivid picture of how societal pressures can distort justice, compelling even a ruler to act against his better judgment, prioritizing popularity over righteousness. This commentary reflects on the broader themes of accountability, the human condition, and the struggle between good and evil that echoes throughout the biblical narrative. The stark reality remains that even in the face of innocence, the darker inclinations of humanity can prevail.
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 23:18-21 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."
- Exodus 23:20-23 meaning. The last section of the Book of the Covenant serves as its conclusion. Though it contains further emphasis on obedience, it concentrates on what the LORD promised to do on Israel's behalf. This is typical of Suzerainty treaties at the time. Specifically, the LORD promised an "angel" to guide them to the Promised Land and to defeat their enemies along the way if they would obey God's voice.
- Luke 6:20 meaning. Jesus begins teaching His disciples in a section commonly referred to as “the Sermon on the Mount,” or sometimes, “the Sermon on the Plain.” To describe the citizens of His Kingdom, Jesus repeats the word “Blessed” (“Makarios”)—a total sense of fulfillment.
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