Matthew 27:20 Meaning and Explanation
“But the chief priests and elders persuaded the multitude that they should ask Barabbas, and destroy Jesus.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The leaders sway the crowd to demand Barabbas and the death of Jesus.
What Does Matthew 27:20 Mean?
While Pilate hesitates, the chief priests and elders work the crowd, urging them to call for Barabbas and to seek Jesus' destruction. The leaders bend the people's will toward their own purpose.
The same crowds that had welcomed Jesus are now steered toward His death by those they trust. It is a sobering picture of how influence can be misused and how easily a multitude can be moved. The shepherds of Israel, charged to lead the flock to life, instead herd them toward the rejection of their King, showing how far the heart can stray when it sets itself against God's anointed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Matthew 27:20
What does Matthew 27:20 mean?
The leaders sway the crowd to demand Barabbas and the death of Jesus.