Matthew 27:11-23

Matthew 27:11-23 
English Standard Version (ESV)

 Let this passage be a warning against believing that the wisdom of the crowds is always best! 
  We spend a lot of energy trying to win the affirmation of the crowd.  Social media is filled with examples of people shouting into the crowd, looking for affirmation, hoping for positive attention, wanting to ensure that the crowds will like us, will support us, maybe even love us.  When the attention of the crowds doesn't come, many take that rejection as a statement on their character, turning inward in defeat.
  But the crowds are not always correct.  The crowds are manipulated in this case by the chief priests, who convince them to opt for Barabbas, rather than seeking the release of their Savior, their Messiah, the one who loves them enough to die for them.  No, they reject Jesus because the crowd doesn't hear the Truth.
  Rather than the affirmation of the crowds, be willing to be rejected by the many by choosing to be faithful instead.  Opt for what is right, rather than what is popular.  It won't be easy, and it may not seem like the right answer, but over the long run, when played out over eternity, it will be the wiser choice, for it will lead to life.