BARABBAS
Described as a “thief” (John 18:40) and “a famous prisoner” (Mt. 27:16). He had led an insurrection and committed murder (Mark 15:7).
Faced with the dilemma of choosing between him and the Lord Jesus, the Jews, instigated by the chief priests and elders, asked for the release of this man, and death for Jesus.
This choice clearly manifested the impiety and hardness of their hearts. Peter did not miss the opportunity to present this fact accusingly to the Jews: “But you denied the Holy and Righteous One, and asked that a murderer be given to you” (Acts 3:14).