23 But they were insistent , with loud voices asking that He be crucified . And their voices began to prevail . 24 And Pilate pronounced sentence that their demand be granted . 25 And he released the man they were asking for who had been thrown into prison for insurrection and murder , but he delivered Jesus to their will .
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Luke 23:23-25
Commentary on Luke 23:13-25
(Read Luke 23:13-25)
The fear of man brings many into this snare, that they will do an unjust thing, against their consciences, rather than get into trouble. Pilate declares Jesus innocent, and has a mind to release him; yet, to please the people, he would punish him as an evil-doer. If no fault be found in him, why chastise him? Pilate yielded at length; he had not courage to go against so strong a stream. He delivered Jesus to their will, to be crucified.