Matthew 27:17 Therefore when they were gathered together, Pilate said unto them, Whom will ye that I release unto you? Barabbas, or Jesus which is called Christ?
The scripture teaches us that Barabbas was involved in an insurrection,  and that he was a robber, as well as a murderer.
Some might say that he was a bad dude!  Now Jesus on the other hand, went about doing good. He lived a sinless life. The bible tells us that He always pleased the Father.  So, given the choice, which one would you want to be freed, and which one crucified? Barrabas, or Jesus?  Here’s a good question,
which one do we resemble the most?  No doubt some would say… well now, I’ve never killed anyone.  I’ve never stolen anything.  I’ve never caused an uproar.  Here’s a verse that might help… James 2:10  For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all.  According to this verse, Barrabas was guilty of the whole law.  He should have been condemned to die.
Not only was Barrabas guilty of breaking the whole law, Jesus kept the whole law!  Yet He was the one that was crucified.  Now, before we are too hard on Barrabas,  realize this… you and I are just as guilty. All have sinned,  there is none righteous,  no not one!  It must have been quite an experience when Barrabas was told someone would die in his place.  No doubt it caused him to wonder.
Know this, it is quite the experience when any lost sinner realizes Jesus died in their place, and place their trust in Him!  The just died for the unjust!   Had we been there that day, you and I may have freed Jesus and crucified Barrabas.
Jesus or Barrabas?  That choice was really not theirs, nor is it ours.  It was God that chose to give His only begotten Son to die in our place.  I should have been crucified, I should have suffered and died,
I should have hung on that cross in disgrace,
But Jesus, God’s son, took my place.  What a great song!  What a great truth! Thank you Lord Jesus.  Amen.  Pastor