What was your prior opinion of or understanding of Barabas? Were you aware of the motives & complexities (perhaps rational) of his crimes, or did you view him as a common criminal? What surprised you?
Is he more of a relatable, or understandable prisoner after hearing how he was viewed by the public? What other historical figures could you relate his quest to that we’ve placed in the heroic category?
Review the charges against Jesus & Barabbas. Note the similarities & dissimilarities. Both sides had charges that were sparked by fear of ending the natural order of things (religious & political). Where were these fears legitimate and where were they misunderstood?
During the message we studied where our approach to the way forward can be similar to Barabbas in three areas: our politics, our religion, and our relationships. Discuss each of these and how we might mistakenly share Barabbas way forward in each category. (bonus question if time: are there other areas besides the 3 listed where we might mistakenly align with Barabbas way forward)
Jesus gave an alternate approach and showed a path forward that gives life rather than takes life. What does this look like practically in the three areas of our politics, our religion, and our relationships?