Some events are recorded in only one Gospel. Others appear in two or three. But when all four Gospel writers include the same detail, we ought to pay attention. 

At the end of our passage, we’re introduced to a man named Barabbas. Matthew tells his story. Mark tells it. Luke tells it. John tells it. Every Gospel makes sure we meet this guilty prisoner.

Why?

Why does the story end with Barabbas going free?

Is it simply to expose the blindness of the Jewish leaders? Or is there something much deeper happening—something that reveals the very heart of the gospel?

I believe the Holy Spirit preserved the story of Barabbas in all four Gospels because Barabbas is not merely a man from history. He is a picture of every sinner who has been set free because Jesus took their place.