'Free' in the Bible
Go and learn what this [Scripture] means: ‘I desire compassion [for those in distress], and not [animal] sacrifice,’ for I did not come to call [to repentance] the [self-proclaimed] righteous [who see no need to change], but sinners [those who recognize their sin and actively seek forgiveness].”
just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many [paying the price to set them free from the penalty of sin].”
Now at the feast [of the Passover] the governor was in the habit of setting free any one prisoner whom the people chose.
So when they had assembled [for this purpose], Pilate said to them, “Whom do you want me to set free for you? Barabbas, or Jesus who is called Christ?”
So he set Barabbas free for them; but after having Jesus severely whipped (scourged), he handed Him over to be crucified.
And if the governor (Pilate) hears about it, we will calm him down and keep you out of trouble.”