Today’s scripture is one of the most serious texts in the Bible. It speaks of the eternal decision that faces each one of us. It is not eternal because I have plenty of time to make it but because it determines my eternal destiny. Like a magnifying glass that can focus sunlight, this text focuses our attention on an inescapable question, what will I do with Jesus?
To appreciate Matthew 27:15-22, we must first set the stage. Jesus has been arrested, tried, and condemned to death. He stands before Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor. Now, it’s the custom during the Passover festival to release one prisoner chosen by the people. Pilate, hoping to release Jesus, presents a choice to the crowd.
What Will I Do With Jesus?
15 Now at the feast, the governor was accustomed to release for the crowd any one prisoner whom they wanted. 16 And they had then a notorious prisoner called Barabbas. 17 So when they had gathered, Pilate said to them, “Whom do you want me to release for you: Barabbas, or Jesus who is called Christ?” 18 For he knew that it was out of envy that they had delivered him up. 19 Besides, while he was sitting on the judgment seat, his wife sent word to him, “Have nothing to do with that righteous man, for I have suffered much because of him today in a dream.” 20 Now the chief priests and the elders persuaded the crowd to ask for Barabbas and destroy Jesus. 21 The governor again said to them, “Which of the two do you want me to release for you?” And they said, “Barabbas.” 22 Pilate said to them, “Then what shall I do with Jesus who is called Christ?”They all said, “Let him be crucified!”
Matthew 27:15-22
There is another text mentioned in the context of our scripture text. In verse 17 the crowd was called upon to make that decision. There is much that could be preached at this point about the price our society pays for the decisions we have made to choose something other than Christ.
In the final analysis, my personal decision is the most important thing. My life may be affected by a public decision, but my eternal destiny is affected by my personal decision. Since this is such a critical area, we look at the greatest decision we ever make.
There Are Many Options Available to Us in Life
There are decisions on matters of personal relationships. What kind of person am I going to be? My personality can be trained. What will I do with my life? The choice is mine. Who will be my life companion? All of us want happy homes. These and other decisions are important but only affect this life.
The decision I make concerning my relationship with Jesus is crucial. It will have a definite effect on everything I do in this life. Of greater importance, it determines my eternal destiny. I can make adjustments for failure in this life. I cannot adjust eternity.
Barabbas, in a way, represents humanity’s sinful nature. We were all in need of redemption, just as Barabbas was deserving of punishment. Jesus, on the other hand, symbolizes the sinless Lamb of God, who was willing to take our place, just as He did for Barabbas.
The crowd’s choice reflects the human tendency to prefer the ways of the world over God’s righteousness. It illustrates our inclination to choose sin over salvation, darkness over light. However, this choice was also a part of God’s divine plan, as Jesus’ crucifixion was necessary for our redemption.
This Is a Personal Decision to Be Made
Pilate was asking for advice in his personal decision (v. 22). He asked the wrong crowd. He did not need their advice. As a Roman ruler, he could do whatever he chose. He was looking for an excuse to make a bad decision.
Today, many people try to escape taking personal responsibility for decisions. Some blame their bad decisions on their background. Some blame the social circumstances in which they live. Some try to blame their failure on the influence of others.
The real issue is, “What will I do with Jesus?”
This Is an Inescapable Decision
Pilate tried to excuse himself. He attempted to wash away his responsibility (v. 24). He tried to prepare an excuse so that he could say, “I tried to prevent it.” According to his own statement, he had the ability to release Jesus (John 19;10)
The question for each one of us is inescapable, “What will I do with Jesus?“
- Nothing you can do or say can ever change your responsibility for a decision concerning your relationship with Jesus Christ.
- Many people try to delay making that decision.
- Seriously consider this. If Jesus should come or should you go, your decision for eternity has been made.
- Eternity waits for no one. The tragic explosion of the space shuttle sent seven people into eternity without any warning.
What Will I Do With Jesus – Conclusion
Matthew 27:15-22 is not just a historical account but a powerful representation of the human condition and God’s redemptive love. It challenges us to examine our own choices and priorities. Like the crowd, we face daily decisions that can shape our spiritual journey. Will we choose Barabbas, the way of the world, or will we choose Jesus, the path of salvation and grace?
In this pivotal moment in the crucifixion story, we find both a sobering reflection of human nature and a profound message of hope. The choice made that day on Calvary’s hill continues to resonate through the ages, reminding us of the ultimate sacrifice and the eternal love of our Savior.
The eternal question is simple, “What will I do with Jesus?” It is unavoidable, and it can never be changed. Pilate was condemned for his decision.
Today this is your question, ask yourself, “What will you do with Jesus?“
Click here to print or download the Scripture study “What Will I Do With Jesus? The Eternal Decision“
