Matthew 27:17 Meaning and Explanation
“Therefore when they were gathered together, Pilate said unto them, Whom will ye that I release unto you? Barabbas, or Jesus which is called Christ?”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Pilate offers the crowd a choice between Barabbas and Jesus the Christ.
What Does Matthew 27:17 Mean?
With the crowd assembled, Pilate lays out the choice: release Barabbas the criminal, or Jesus who is called Christ. He seems to hope the people will ask for Jesus and free him from a difficult verdict.
Two men stand before the people, and a single question divides them: whom will you have? The choice between a man of violence and the Prince of Peace becomes a mirror held up to every heart. In offering this decision, Pilate unwittingly frames the question each soul must answer about the One called Christ.
Matthew 27:17 in the Original Language
Christos (Χριστός), 'Christ' -- the Anointed One, the promised deliverer.
Frequently Asked Questions About Matthew 27:17
What does Matthew 27:17 mean?
Pilate offers the crowd a choice between Barabbas and Jesus the Christ.