15 It was customary during the festival for the governor to release to the crowd one prisoner, whomever they might choose.
16 At that time there was a well-known prisoner named Jesus Barabbas.
17 When the crowd had come together, Pilate asked them, "Whom would you like me to release to you, Jesus Barabbas or Jesus who is called Christ?"
18 He knew that the leaders of the people had handed him over because of jealousy.
19 While he was serving as judge, his wife sent this message to him, "Leave that righteous man alone. I’ve suffered much today in a dream because of him."
20 But the chief priests and the elders persuaded the crowds to ask for Barabbas and kill Jesus.
21 The governor said, "Which of the two do you want me to release to you?" "Barabbas," they replied.