Definition: And when they had bound him, they led [him] away, and delivered him to Pontius Pilate the governor.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 27:2. It’s a really important part of Jesus’ story after his arrest. Here's what it means in simple terms: Basically, they bound (held captive) him and then took him away from the place where he was being held. Let’s unpack that a little further: “They had bound him” : This means they physically restrained Jesus, likely to keep him safe while they investigated what happened to him. “They led [him] away” : This describes how they moved him – they carried him off. “And delivered him to Pontius Pilate the governor” : This is the key part! Pontius Pilate was the Roman governor of Jerusalem at the time. He was in charge of overseeing the city and its residents, including Jesus. They took him to him – he was brought before his authority. So, what does this tell us about what happened? It’s a crucial step in the arrest and trial of Jesus. It shows that he was taken into custody by Roman authorities, signifying he was being investigated and possibly facing charges. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a sign that Jesus was innocent and that his death was necessary for God's plan. However, it’s also important to remember that at the time, the Romans were still ruling over the region and had authority over the people. --- Do you want me to explain any of these parts in more detail? For example, would you like to know: What “bound him” might mean? Why was he brought before the governor?

Definition: But the chief priests and elders persuaded the multitude that they should ask Barabbas, and destroy Jesus.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Matthew 27:20. It's a really important and unsettling part of the story of Jesus’ crucifixion. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Situation: Jesus is Arrested: In the early morning hours of Good Friday, after he was arrested by Roman guards, Jesus was brought to Jerusalem. The Leaders Talk: Several leaders – including the chief priests and elders – gathered with a group of people. They were trying to figure out what to do with Jesus. They Suggest a Deal: They proposed a deal: Instead of letting Jesus be tried and executed, they suggested he be released before the trial began. They wanted to let him go free. What Happened Next – The Cruel Proposal: Barabbas is Chosen: The leaders decided to have Barabbas, one of the convicted criminals, released. This was a very controversial decision, and it’s what led to the tragic events that followed. “Ask Barabbas” - A Dangerous Request: They instructed the crowd to ask Barabbas to be freed. It's important to understand this wasn't a request for Jesus to be released – it was a request for Barabbas to be freed. Why This Is Problematic & Disturbing: This entire scenario is deeply troubling because: It’s a Plea for Revenge: The leaders were actively seeking a way to avoid the trial and punishment that was meant for Jesus. They wanted to let someone else face consequences. It's a Violation of Justice: The act of releasing Barabbas, a convicted criminal, was considered a serious injustice. It essentially undermined the process of delivering justice. What it Reveals About the Situation: This passage reveals a moment of political maneuvering and potentially a lack of concern for the principles of justice. It highlights how powerful leaders can be and how they might prioritize their own interests over the well-being of those under their authority. Important Note: The exact context and meaning behind this passage have been debated by theologians for centuries. It’s a significant event in the Gospels that raises questions about leadership, justice, and the potential for abuse of power. --- Do you want me to delve deeper into any specific aspect of this passage? For example, would you like me to: Explain the historical context? Discuss the theological implications?

Definition: The governor answered and said unto them, Whether of the twain will ye that I release unto you? They said, Barabbas.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 27:21. It’s a really important part of understanding what happened after Jesus was nailed to the cross. Here's the simple explanation: The Situation: Jesus had been unjustly accused and convicted by the Roman governor, Pontius Pilate. The governor is essentially asking him if he’d let him go on the condition that he’s released. What happened next: Barabbas: The prisoners are asked if they want to release Jesus. The Answer: They say, “Barabbas.” What does this mean? “Barabbas” is a Hebrew name meaning "the one who rises." It’s a nickname for the prisoner being led to the stake. It's a very harsh and defiant answer. It suggests the prisoners weren't pleading for leniency; they were refusing to accept their fate. The Significance: This is a crucial moment in the story because: It highlights injustice: The prisoners’ refusal to plead for mercy shows that they believed they were being treated unfairly. It sets the stage for Jesus' crucifixion: The governor, recognizing this defiant response, decides to give Jesus a more brutal punishment – crucifixion. He’s essentially saying, "You're not going to be released." In short, “Barabbas” means ‘the one who rises.’ It signifies that the prisoners refused to accept their unjust fate and were sentenced to death. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Provide context about this passage in the Bible? Discuss the significance of the story as a whole?

Definition: Pilate saith unto them, What shall I do then with Jesus which is called Christ? [They] all say unto him, Let him be crucified.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this famous passage from Matthew 27:22. It's a really important and dramatic moment in the story of Jesus’ trial and crucifixion. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Core Idea: Pilate – a Roman official – is asking Jesus, “What are you going to do with him? What are you going to do with someone who’s been accused of something serious?” Let's unpack the words: “Pilate saith unto them…” - This means Pilate spoke to them. “[They] all say unto him, Let him be crucified.” – This is the key part. The crowd (the people) all agree that Jesus should be crucified. What does it mean? It’s a pretty harsh instruction. Pilate wants to know what to do with Jesus, and the crowd wants to execute him. It suggests they believe Jesus is guilty of some terrible crime – perhaps something involving betrayal or violence. Why was this done? This passage is crucial because it's the beginning of Jesus’ crucifixion. Pilate, as a Roman official, had ultimate authority over Jesus and his followers. He was essentially giving him a choice: he could either cooperate with the Romans, or he would face execution. The crowd’s demand to have him crucified is a clear signal that they believe Jesus is guilty of something that needs to be dealt with severely. Important Context: This is part of a larger story about Jesus being accused of treason – perhaps because he was challenging Roman authority. It shows the power struggle between Jewish and Roman authorities at the time, and it highlights the tension in the early days of Christianity. In short: Pilate tells Jesus to be crucified, signaling the beginning of his agonizing death. --- Do you want me to explain any specific part of this verse in more detail? For example, we could talk about: The context of the story surrounding this verse The significance of the word "crucified" What it implies about the Roman government's power at the time

Definition: And the governor said, Why, what evil hath he done? But they cried out the more, saying, Let him be crucified.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Matthew 27:23. It’s a really important and dramatic part of Jesus’ final moments. Here’s a simplified explanation: What it says: “And the governor said, Why, what evil hath he done? But they cried out the more, saying, Let him be crucified.” Here's what’s happening in plain English: The Governor is Asking a Question: The governor – a leader of the Roman authorities – is asking why Jesus did something so terrible. He’s trying to understand why someone committed such a crime. They Are Expressing Anger and Distress: “But they cried out the more” means they were very upset, probably in a way that was loud and intense. They weren't just mildly annoyed; they were really frustrated and worried about what this meant. "Let Him Be Crucified": This is the core of the verse. The people are demanding that Jesus be put to death – that he be crucified (a very gruesome form of execution). They want his suffering to be seen as a serious crime. What it means – It's about Justice and Punishment: This verse tells us that Jesus was accused of something wicked, but the people were outraged because they believed he did something deeply wrong. They wanted his punishment to be severe, and so they demanded he be crucified. It’s a powerful moment because… It shows the power of the crowd: The sheer volume of people demanding Jesus' death highlights how important and influential he was to them. It illustrates the gravity of the situation: The governor is dealing with a huge, potentially dangerous situation – a political and religious challenge. It’s a key part of Jesus' crucifixion: This event is considered the starting point of the Christian faith. It’s the moment where Jesus was unjustly accused and ultimately suffered a death that marked the beginning of his mission. In short, this verse describes a moment of intense public anger and a desperate plea for justice – a pivotal moment in history. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible passage? Tell you about the historical context of this event? Answer any specific questions you have about it?

Definition: When Pilate saw that he could prevail nothing, but [that] rather a tumult was made, he took water, and washed [his] hands before the multitude, saying, I am innocent of the blood of this just person: see ye [to it].

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 27:24. It's a really important and complex moment in Jesus’ trial. Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Basic Story: Jesus was being accused of a crime – he was crucified. The Roman authorities (Pilate) were trying to get him to confess or give up his defense. They wanted to make sure he didn't resist and that they could keep the situation under control. What Happened Next: Pilate’s Action: Pilate, a Roman official, didn't immediately accuse Jesus of wrongdoing. He instead decided to do something unexpected – he started washing his hands. This is crucial! He was essentially saying, "I'm innocent of the blood of this just person." The Significance of Washing Hands: This action wasn’t just a simple gesture. It symbolized a powerful shift in how Pilate viewed Jesus. He was acknowledging that he couldn’t win a trial by arguing and convincing Jesus. It meant he realized Jesus was innocent, and he needed to show it. What Does It Mean? This verse is a key moment showing the power of God's plan. Here's what it suggests: God's Sovereignty: Pilate was being manipulated by God. Pilate wasn’t acting on his own volition; he was following a divine will. Jesus’ Innocence: It reveals that Jesus was innocent, and the authorities were trying to deny it. The Power of God’s Will: This act demonstrates that God is in control, even when things seem chaotic or difficult. God's plan is working even if we don’t fully understand it. In short, Pilate was showing that he couldn’t win a trial against Jesus, and by washing his hands, he was acknowledging the truth of Jesus’ innocence. --- Do you want to delve deeper into any aspect of this verse? For example, would you like me to: Explain the context surrounding this event in Matthew 27:24? Discuss the theological significance of this passage?

Definition: Then answered all the people, and said, His blood [be] on us, and on our children.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this incredibly important verse from Matthew 27:25. It’s a really powerful and dramatic part of Jesus’s final moments. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: Jesus is speaking to the crowd after his crucifixion – he’s been nailed to the cross. He’s asking them to cling to his death. He's saying that his blood is on us, and on our children. Let’s unpack it further: "Then answered all the people..." : This means Jesus was speaking to a large group of people – they were in shock, grief, and probably feeling overwhelmed by what had happened. "...and said, His blood be on us..." : This is a crucial phrase. It’s not just saying “His blood is on us.” It's emphasizing that because of his death, we are now associated with him. He’s making it clear that he is the source of our salvation and forgiveness. "...and on our children." : This highlights a significant point – Jesus’s death is not just for him, but for all humanity. It implies a promise of redemption and forgiveness for future generations through his blood. What does it mean practically? This verse speaks to the idea of atonement. Atonement is about making things right by forgiving sins. Jesus’s death on the cross is seen as the ultimate atonement, offering forgiveness for our sins. By saying "His blood be on us," we are symbolically receiving this forgiveness and being linked with his sacrifice. Important Context: This verse is a key part of the narrative that leads to Jesus's crucifixion. It’s a moment of intense emotion and a declaration of acceptance, showing that he was willing to die for our sins. In short, it means Jesus’ death is a sacrificial act that offers forgiveness and redemption to all humanity. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Provide more context about the time and place of this event? Discuss the significance of this verse within the larger story of Matthew 27?

Definition: Then released he Barabbas unto them: and when he had scourged Jesus, he delivered [him] to be crucified.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 27:26. It's a really important part of the story after Jesus’ death. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it says that after Jesus was nailed to the cross, he was released. Let’s unpack that a little further: “Then released he Barabbas unto them” : This means Jesus freed Barabbas, a prisoner who had been held earlier. “and when he had scourged Jesus” : “Scourged” means to beat or harshly punish someone. So, this refers to Jesus being severely beaten – likely by the Romans – before he was crucified. “he delivered [him] to be crucified.” : This is the key part. Jesus was released from his prison and brought to be crucified. So, what’s happening? It's a bit of a strange turn of events after Jesus’ death. The Romans were angry, and they essentially gave him a choice: let him go free or let him die. They chose the first option. Why is this significant? This passage is often interpreted as a sign that Jesus didn’t die on the cross in the way the Romans expected. It suggests that he was somehow freed by God, offering a promise of hope and liberation for those who believe in him. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you some context about what happened before this passage? Discuss the different interpretations of this story?

Definition: Then the soldiers of the governor took Jesus into the common hall, and gathered unto him the whole band [of soldiers].

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Matthew 27:27. It’s a really important part of the story leading up to Jesus’ crucifixion. Here's what it means in simple terms: Basically, the soldiers were holding Jesus in a special room – the "common hall" – while they gathered together. Let’s unpack that a little further: “The soldiers of the governor”: This refers to the Roman officials who were in charge of Jesus. They weren't necessarily involved in his trial or execution, but they were there to keep order and protect the area. “Took Jesus into the common hall”: They brought him into a room that was designed for gatherings – probably a large space where they could talk and listen. “And gathered unto him the whole band [of soldiers]”: This is a fancy way of saying “all the soldiers.” It suggests there were many soldiers present, likely a significant number. So, what’s happening here? This is a very early stage of Jesus' arrest. The Romans weren't interested in getting to know him. They were focused on maintaining control and preventing trouble. By bringing him into a room with the soldiers, they were essentially keeping him under surveillance while they prepared for his trial. Why was this important? This scene is significant because it shows: The Romans' power: They were in charge and controlling Jesus. A plan for the trial: They were setting up a situation where Jesus would be questioned, and the Romans would want to see what he said. Do you want me to explain any of this further? For example, I could: Give you a little more context about the Roman authorities. Explain the significance of "the common hall." Or maybe we can talk about what this passage might mean for Jesus’s future?

Definition: And they stripped him, and put on him a scarlet robe.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 27:28: “And they stripped him, and put on him a scarlet robe.” Basically, it means Jesus was brutally beaten and dressed in a bright red garment. Here's a more detailed explanation: “They stripped him” : This suggests a violent and forceful action. It wasn’t a gentle removal; it was a deliberate process of humiliation and pain. “And put on him a scarlet robe” : A scarlet robe is a very, very deep red color. It's often associated with blood and sacrifice in Jewish tradition. Putting this robe on Jesus signifies that he was being treated as a sacrificial offering – a victim of violence. What does this verse tell us about the events leading up to his crucifixion? This is a key image in Christian theology. It’s seen as a powerful symbol: The Price for Our Sins: Jesus, as God's Son, was believed to be fully human and therefore vulnerable to sin. His suffering on the cross was seen as a necessary payment for humanity's sins. A Cruel Punishment: The act of stripping him and dressing him in red highlights the extreme cruelty of the Roman authorities who ultimately condemned him to death. It’s a stark reminder that he suffered deeply, even at the hands of those who were supposed to protect him. Important Note: It's important to understand this verse within its historical context – it was a very dramatic and unsettling moment in the events surrounding Jesus’ death. Do you want me to: Explain why this verse is significant? Discuss the symbolism of the red robe? Compare it to other Bible verses about suffering or sacrifice?