WE BECOME WHAT WE RELEASE

Both the Hebrew and Greek meanings of release are “the forgiveness of a debt” or “to let go free” (Deuteronomy 15:1-2, 9; 31:10; Matthew 27:15, John 19:10) At the trial of Jesus the Jews were demanding the release of Barabbas and death of Jesus.

Barabbas (or Jesus Barabbas means “son of the father” or “son of a rabbi or teacher”). He was known as a murderer, robber and insurrectionist. A murderer is someone who takes another’s life. A robber is someone who takes what belongs to another. An insurrectionist is someone who is in rebellion, revolt, revolution, uprising or riot and this is someone who is demanding a government that is not the government of God. This is what is known of Barabbas and his life

Jesus Christ (or Jesus, means savior or deliverer and Christ, the anointed one). He is known as the life-giver, light giver and a man of Peace. He is a giver and not a taker…not a robber. He is submitted to the government of God, “I only do what the Father wants.”
(John 5:30; John 8:28) No insurrection in him.

Now one of these two is going to be released: Jesus or Barabbas. One of these two is always released! All choices are based on this principle: we become what we release.

The chief priests, elders, Pilate and the people became the murderers, robbers and insurrectionists and rebels they released in Barabbas. Pilate became the murderer of Jesus by his political protectionism, and said, “I am innocent of this man’s blood,” as he “took water and washed his hands in front of the people.” The people said, “Let his blood be on us and on our children.”

It matters little what religion and politics say about the
Christ—what do we say? What we release is what we become—Barabbas or Christ. It was true then and it is true now. We are going to get what we release personally, locally, politically, religiously, nationally and globally. Jesus or Barabbas? Every time.
“Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing.” Jesus