Matthew 27:16 And they had a notable prisoner, called Barabbas. 17 Therefore when they were gathered together, Pilate said unto them, whom will you that I release unto you? Barabbas, or Jesus which is called Christ? 20 But the chief priests and elders persuaded the multitude that they should ask Barabbas, and destroy Jesus.
The verses above are taken from one of the darkest chapters of the history of God’s chosen people, who up until this time were His peculiar treasure on the earth. God is long-suffering and merciful in all of His dealings with the human family and especially those who have entered into a covenant relationship with Himself. Thus, in harmony with His nature of love, God bore long the chosen people, sending various prophets and messengers to speak kindly to them entreating all who would, to take refuge in the Only One who is able to save us from ourselves.
This covenant of peace was extended not merely for a matter of weeks or months but for many years, as God nurtured, instructed, reproved, and taught His people, concerning The Messiah who was to come. In the prophecy of Daniel, it was revealed that a set probationary time was to be granted to the nation, so that they would get their act together.
During the time that was to elapse, great knowledge and understanding of future events were revealed from time to time, so that when Messiah came, the chosen people should be ready to receive Him, as is made plain in the 490- day/ year prophecy given to the prophet Daniel, which is the first portion of the longer 2300 day/ year prophecy.
Daniel 9: 24 Seventy weeks are determined upon thy people and upon thy holy city, to finish the transgression, and to make an end of sins, and to make reconciliation for iniquity, and to bring in everlasting righteousness, and to seal up the vision and prophecy, and to anoint the most Holy.
May God add His blessing to the study of His word. “Good night” and God bless!