19
While Pilate was judging the case, his wife sent him a message. It said, "Leave that innocent man alone. I've been very upset today because of a dream I had about him."
20
But the chief priests and leaders persuaded the crowd to ask for the release of Barabbas and the execution of Jesus.
21
The governor asked them, "Which of the two do you want me to free for you?" They said, "Barabbas."
22
Pilate asked them, "Then what should I do with Jesus, who is called Christ?" "He should be crucified!" they all said.
23
Pilate asked, "Why? What has he done wrong?" But they began to shout loudly, "He should be crucified!"
24
Pilate saw that he was not getting anywhere. Instead, a riot was breaking out. So Pilate took some water and washed his hands in front of the crowd. He said, "I won't be guilty of killing this man. Do what you want!"
25
All the people answered, "The responsibility for killing him will rest on us and our children."
26
Then Pilate freed Barabbas for the people. But he had Jesus whipped and handed over to be crucified.
27
Then the governor's soldiers took Jesus into the palace and gathered the whole troop around him.
28
They took off his clothes and put a bright red cape on him.
29
They twisted some thorns into a crown, placed it on his head, and put a stick in his right hand. They knelt in front of him and made fun of him by saying, "Long live the king of the Jews!"