Matthew 27:16

Notable. Gr. episēmos, “marked,” “illustrious,” “notorious.” Here the latter meaning seems to be intended. Barabbas was probably the leader, or one of the leaders, of a riot that had recently occurred in Jerusalem. Contemporary historical records indicate that riots and insurrections were common in both Judea and Galilee.

Barabbas. There is some textual evidence (cf. p. 146) for the reading “Jesus Barabbas.” Pilate offered the people the choice between a self-styled political savior, who promised salvation from the tyranny of Rome, and the Saviour of the world, who had come to save men from the tyranny of sin. They preferred submission to the leadership of Barabbas rather than to the leadership of Christ.