Mark 15:6

Now it was Pilate's custom at the feast to release to the people a prisoner of their choosing.

Study Bible

Now it was
This phrase sets the stage for a specific moment in time, indicating a customary practice. The Greek word "ἦν" (ēn) is an imperfect tense verb, suggesting an ongoing or habitual action. This implies that the event described was not a one-time occurrence but a regular tradition during the feast. It highlights the predictability and expectation surrounding the events that unfold.

Pilate’s custom
Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor of Judea, is central to this narrative. The term "custom" (Greek: ἔθος, ethos) refers to a practice or tradition that has been established over time. Historically, this custom of releasing a prisoner was likely a political maneuver to appease the Jewish populace during Passover, a time of heightened nationalistic sentiment. Pilate's role here underscores the tension between Roman authority and Jewish tradition.

at the feast
The "feast" refers to the Passover, a pivotal Jewish festival commemorating the Israelites' liberation from Egyptian bondage. This context is crucial, as Passover was a time of great nationalistic fervor and religious significance. The release of a prisoner during this feast would have been a symbolic gesture of liberation, echoing the themes of freedom and deliverance inherent in the Passover celebration.

to release
The act of releasing (Greek: ἀπολύω, apolyō) a prisoner is significant both legally and symbolically. It denotes a setting free or a granting of liberty. In the context of the narrative, this act of release is laden with irony, as the crowd will soon choose to release Barabbas, a known insurrectionist, over Jesus, the true liberator from sin.

to the people
The phrase "to the people" (Greek: τῷ ὄχλῳ, tō ochlō) indicates that the decision was placed in the hands of the Jewish populace. This highlights the democratic element of the custom, where the collective will of the people determined the outcome. It also foreshadows the tragic choice that the crowd will make, emphasizing the theme of human responsibility and the consequences of collective decision-making.

a prisoner
The term "prisoner" (Greek: δέσμιος, desmios) refers to someone who is bound or in chains. This word choice underscores the contrast between physical bondage and spiritual freedom. The narrative tension builds as the reader anticipates which prisoner will be released, setting the stage for the profound irony of the crowd's choice.

of their choosing
The phrase "of their choosing" (Greek: ὃν ᾐτοῦντο, hon ēitounto) emphasizes the agency and responsibility of the people in making their selection. This choice is pivotal, as it reflects the moral and spiritual state of the nation. Theologically, it serves as a reminder of the human tendency to choose wrongly, even when presented with the truth, and highlights the need for divine intervention in guiding human choices.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Pilate
The Roman governor of Judea, known for his role in the trial and crucifixion of Jesus. He is depicted as a figure who struggles with the decision to condemn Jesus, ultimately succumbing to the pressure of the crowd.

2. The Feast
Refers to the Passover, a significant Jewish festival commemorating the Israelites' liberation from Egyptian slavery. It was customary for the Roman governor to release a prisoner to the Jewish people during this time as a gesture of goodwill.

3. The People
The Jewish crowd present at the feast, who had the opportunity to choose which prisoner would be released. Their choice reflects the societal and political tensions of the time.

4. Prisoner
Although not named in this verse, the context reveals that Barabbas, a known insurrectionist, was the prisoner released instead of Jesus.

5. Custom
The practice of releasing a prisoner during the feast, which highlights the political dynamics and Pilate's attempt to maintain peace and order among the Jewish populace.

Teaching Points

Understanding Custom and Culture
Recognize the significance of cultural customs in biblical accounts and how they influence events. Pilate's custom reflects the political and social dynamics of the time.

The Power of Choice
Reflect on the choices we make and their consequences. The crowd's choice to release Barabbas over Jesus serves as a reminder of the importance of discernment and the impact of collective decisions.

Jesus as Our Substitute
Embrace the theological truth that Jesus took our place, much like He took Barabbas' place. This act of substitution is central to the Christian faith and calls us to live in gratitude and obedience.

The Role of Authority
Consider the responsibilities of those in authority, like Pilate, and the pressures they face. This can lead to discussions on how Christians should engage with and pray for leaders today.

The Influence of the Crowd
Be aware of the influence of societal pressures and the crowd mentality. As Christians, we are called to stand firm in our convictions, even when it goes against popular opinion.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Pilate's custom of releasing a prisoner during the feast reflect the political and social climate of the time?

2. In what ways does the choice between Jesus and Barabbas illustrate the broader biblical theme of substitution and redemption?

3. How can we apply the lesson of the crowd's choice in our own lives when faced with decisions that challenge our faith?

4. What responsibilities do Christians have when it comes to engaging with and praying for those in positions of authority, as seen in Pilate's role?

5. How can we guard against the influence of societal pressures and maintain our convictions in today's world, drawing from the example of the crowd's decision?

Connections to Other Scriptures

The practice of releasing a prisoner is also mentioned in the other Gospels, providing a fuller picture of the events leading to Jesus' crucifixion. This custom is a pivotal moment in the Passion account, illustrating the choice between Jesus and Barabbas.

The concept of substitution, where Jesus takes the place of Barabbas, can be connected to the broader biblical theme of Jesus as the sacrificial Lamb, taking the place of sinners.

The crowd's choice of Barabbas over Jesus can be linked to the Old Testament accounts where the people of Israel often chose rebellion over obedience to God.