The "Call to Crucify" refers to the pivotal moment in the New Testament when the crowd, influenced by the chief priests and elders, demanded the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. This event is recorded in all four Gospels and marks a significant turning point in the Passion narrative, leading to the crucifixion and subsequent resurrection of Jesus.

Biblical Context

The call to crucify Jesus occurs during the trial before Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor of Judea. After Jesus is arrested in the Garden of Gethsemane, He is brought before the Sanhedrin, where He is accused of blasphemy. However, since the Jewish leaders lacked the authority to execute capital punishment, they brought Jesus to Pilate, presenting Him as a political threat to Roman authority by claiming He declared Himself King of the Jews.

Gospel Accounts

1. Matthew 27:15-26: In Matthew's account, Pilate offers to release a prisoner to the crowd, as was customary during the Passover. The choice is between Jesus and Barabbas, a notorious prisoner. Influenced by the chief priests and elders, the crowd chooses Barabbas. Pilate asks, "What then shall I do with Jesus who is called Christ?" The crowd responds, "Crucify Him!" (Matthew 27:22). Despite Pilate's attempts to reason with them, the crowd insists, leading Pilate to symbolically wash his hands, declaring himself innocent of Jesus' blood.

2. Mark 15:6-15: Mark's Gospel similarly recounts the custom of releasing a prisoner. The crowd, stirred by the chief priests, demands Barabbas' release and calls for Jesus' crucifixion. Pilate, seeking to satisfy the crowd, releases Barabbas and delivers Jesus to be crucified.

3. Luke 23:13-25: Luke provides additional details, noting Pilate's repeated declarations of Jesus' innocence. Despite this, the crowd's insistence grows louder, demanding Jesus' crucifixion. Pilate ultimately capitulates to their demands, releasing Barabbas and sentencing Jesus to crucifixion.

4. John 19:1-16: In John's account, Pilate's interactions with Jesus are more detailed, highlighting Pilate's internal conflict. The Jewish leaders assert that Jesus must die because He claimed to be the Son of God. Pilate, increasingly fearful, attempts to release Jesus, but the crowd threatens Pilate's loyalty to Caesar. Ultimately, Pilate presents Jesus to the crowd, declaring, "Here is your King!" The chief priests respond, "We have no king but Caesar," and the crowd demands, "Crucify Him!" (John 19:14-15).

Theological Significance

The call to crucify Jesus is a profound moment that underscores the rejection of Jesus as the Messiah by the religious leaders and the people. It fulfills Old Testament prophecies about the suffering servant (Isaiah 53) and highlights the sinfulness of humanity, which necessitated Jesus' sacrificial death. The crowd's choice of Barabbas over Jesus symbolizes the preference for a worldly savior over the true spiritual Redeemer.

Pilate's Role

Pilate's role in the call to crucify is complex. Despite recognizing Jesus' innocence, Pilate succumbs to political pressure and the fear of unrest. His decision to wash his hands symbolizes an attempt to absolve himself of responsibility, yet it underscores his moral failure to uphold justice.

The Crowd's Influence

The crowd's demand for crucifixion reflects the influence of the religious leaders and the volatile nature of public opinion. It serves as a reminder of the dangers of mob mentality and the ease with which truth can be overshadowed by manipulation and fear.

Conclusion

The call to crucify Jesus is a central event in the Passion narrative, illustrating the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan through the willing sacrifice of His Son. It challenges believers to reflect on the gravity of sin, the depth of Christ's love, and the call to stand firm in truth amidst societal pressures.