At that time they had a notorious prisoner called Barabbas.
Now, at the Feast, the Governor was accustomed to grant the people the release of any one prisoner whom they might choose.
So, when the people had collected, Pilate said to them: "Which do you wish me to release for you? Barabbas? Or Jesus who is called 'Christ'?"
A man called Barabbas was in prison, with the rioters who had committed murder during a riot.
He released the man who had been put in prison for riot and murder, as they demanded, and gave Jesus up to be dealt with as they pleased.
"No, not this man," they shouted again, "but Barabbas!" This Barabbas was a robber.
You, I say, disowned the Holy and Righteous One, and asked for the release of a murderer!
Well aware of God's decree, that those who do such things deserve to die, not only are they guilty of them themselves, but they even applaud those who do them.
To Andronicus and Junias, my countrymen and once my fellow- prisoners, who are men of note among the Apostles, and who became Christians before I did;