Show Don't Tell: Matthew 27:11-26

Instead of saying "Pilate condemned Jesus under pressure," hear the crowd choose. Jesus stands before the governor. "Are you the king of the Jews?" "You have said so." The chief priests and elders accuse him; he gives no answer. Pilate is amazed at the silence. Festival custom: release one prisoner, the people's choice. Pilate has a notorious prisoner called Barabbas—a murderer. He gives them the choice: "Which one do you want me to release to you: Barabbas, or Jesus who is called the Messiah?" He knows it's envy driving the accusers. His wife sends word: "Don't have anything to do with that innocent man. I have suffered a great deal today in a dream because of him." But the chief priests persuade the crowd: Barabbas. "What shall I do, then, with Jesus who is called the Messiah?" "Crucify him!" "Why? What crime has he committed?" "Crucify him!" Louder. Pilate takes water, washes his hands before the crowd: "I am innocent of this man's blood. It is your responsibility!" "His blood is on us and on our children!" He releases Barabbas. He has Jesus flogged and handed over to be crucified.