Jesus the Son of Man · Chapter
Barabbas explained
Barabbas, the criminal released instead of Jesus, recounts the crucifixion from his perspective.
What happens
Barabbas, the criminal released instead of Jesus, recounts the crucifixion from his perspective. He describes his guilt and shame as he walks behind Jesus, witnesses the crucifixion, hears Jesus's words of forgiveness and compassion, and realizes that his own torment will be endless while Jesus's suffering was brief.
Themes in this chapter
Suffering and Sacrifice
Barabbas reflects on Jesus's sacrifice in his place, and the ongoing torment he himself will endure.
Love and Forgiveness
Jesus's words from the cross, 'Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do,' highlight the theme of forgiveness.
Characters to notice
- Barabbas
Narrator of the chapter, released instead of Jesus, witnesses the crucifixion.
- Jesus
Crucified in Barabbas's place, speaks words of forgiveness and compassion from the cross.
- Mary
Stands near the cross, Jesus entrusts her to the beloved disciple.
- John the Beloved Disciple
Stands beside Mary at the crucifixion, Jesus calls him her son.
Key passages
“They released me and chose Him. Then He rose and I fell down.”
The crowd freed me and condemned Him. He was lifted up while I was brought low.
Barabbas contrasts his release with Jesus's elevation on the cross.
“I was freed from my chains, and walked with the throng behind Him, but I was a living man going to my own grave.”
Although my bonds were removed, I followed the crowd after Him, yet I felt as though I were walking to my own death.
Barabbas expresses his inner torment despite his physical freedom.
“Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.”
Father, pardon these people, for they are unaware of the wrong they are committing.
Jesus's plea for forgiveness for his executioners.