Topical Bible: The Feast of the Passover: Custom of Releasing a Prisoner At

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Topical Encyclopedia

The Feast of the Passover, a pivotal event in Jewish tradition, commemorates the Israelites' deliverance from Egyptian bondage as described in the Book of Exodus. During this feast, a unique custom emerged in the Roman-occupied Judea of the New Testament era: the release of a prisoner by the Roman governor as a gesture of goodwill towards the Jewish populace.

Biblical Context

The custom of releasing a prisoner during the Passover is most notably referenced in the Gospels, where it plays a significant role in the events leading up to the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The Gospel of Matthew records, "Now it was the governor’s custom at the feast to release to the crowd a prisoner of their choosing" (Matthew 27:15). This practice is further corroborated in the Gospels of Mark, Luke, and John, indicating its established nature during the time of Jesus.

Historical and Cultural Background

The origins of this custom are not explicitly detailed in historical records outside the Gospels, but it is understood to be a Roman practice aimed at placating the Jewish population during their most significant religious festival. The act of releasing a prisoner was likely intended to maintain peace and order, demonstrating Roman authority's willingness to show leniency and respect for Jewish customs.

Theological Significance

The custom gains profound theological significance in the narrative of Jesus' trial. The Gospels recount that Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor, offered the crowd a choice between releasing Jesus, whom he found innocent, and Barabbas, a known insurrectionist and murderer. The crowd, influenced by the chief priests and elders, chose Barabbas, leading to Jesus' crucifixion (Matthew 27:16-26).

This event is rich in symbolism and theological reflection. The choice between Jesus and Barabbas represents the broader rejection of the Messiah by the people He came to save. It underscores the innocence of Christ and the substitutionary nature of His sacrifice, as the guilty Barabbas is set free while the sinless Jesus is condemned.

Implications for Christian Doctrine

From a doctrinal perspective, the release of Barabbas in place of Jesus is often seen as a vivid illustration of the Gospel message. It exemplifies the concept of substitutionary atonement, where Jesus takes the place of sinners, bearing the punishment they deserve. This act of grace and mercy is central to Christian belief, highlighting the depth of God's love and the fulfillment of divine justice through Christ's sacrificial death.

Conclusion

The custom of releasing a prisoner at the Feast of the Passover, as depicted in the New Testament, serves as a critical element in the Passion narrative. It not only reflects the historical and cultural context of Roman Judea but also provides profound insights into the nature of Christ's redemptive work. Through this event, believers are reminded of the cost of their salvation and the boundless grace offered through Jesus Christ.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Matthew 27:15
Now at that feast the governor was wont to release to the people a prisoner, whom they would.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Luke 23:16,17
I will therefore chastise him, and release him.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Pontius Pilate
... with a troop of soldiers at the Passover, to prevent ... they wished to be "clean" for
the feast they were ... Next he clutched at the custom of releasing a prisoner ...
/.../milligan/men of the bible some lesser-known/pontius pilate.htm

Third Stage of the Roman Trial. Pilate Reluctantly Sentences Him ...
... a 15 Now at the feast [the passover and unleavened bread] the ... { ^b whom they asked
of him.} [No one knows when or by whom this custom was introduced, but ...
/.../mcgarvey/the four-fold gospel/cxxxi third stage of the.htm