“Your proximity to Jesus is not an indicator of whether you’ve submitted yourself to the truth of Jesus.”
D. Dorn
One of Josiah Queen’s most popular songs is I am Barabbas. Here is a portion of the lyrics:
I am Barabbas
You took upon my cross
I was a prisoner
Till you bought my bond with blood
And I can’t run away
From what my accusers say
‘Cause I am Barabbas
I am Barabbas, your friend
It’s a wonderful song and a powerful example of the use of a Christian’s baptized imagination. He imagines the sacrifice of Jesus from the point of view of Barabbas, who was robber (and murderer and insurrectionist) and whose life was spared by Jesus who took his actual physical place. Matthew’s account describes Barabbas as a “notorious prisoner:”
15 Now at the feast the governor was accustomed to release for the crowd any one prisoner whom they wanted. 16 And they had then a notorious prisoner called Barabbas. 17 So when they had gathered, Pilate said to them, “Whom do you want me to release for you: Barabbas, or Jesus who is called Christ?” 18 For he knew that it was out of envy that they had delivered him up…20 Now the chief priests and the elders persuaded the crowd to ask for Barabbas and destroy Jesus. 21 The governor again said to them, “Which of the two do you want me to release for you?” And they said, “Barabbas.” 22 Pilate said to them, “Then what shall I do with Jesus who is called Christ?” They all said, “Let him be crucified!” 23 And he said, “Why? What evil has he done?” But they shouted all the more, “Let him be crucified!” (Matthew 27:15-18, 20-23)
Josiah Queen’s song imagines and assumes its effect on Barabbas and it’s here we offer a gentle warning, —proximity to Jesus is not an indicator of submission to Jesus. Pilate stood very close to Jesus and even questioned him. Herod was pleased to have a chance to see Jesus. The rich young ruler spent some time in discussion with Jesus. All three left Jesus unconverted. They were in the gracious presence of the King of Kings but preferred to remain in the rebel camp. Barabbas is also described as “among the rebels in prison.” (Mark 15:7) Was his heart truly changed? The text does not tell us, but heaven will. Dear reader, please do not assume that your proximity to Jesus, by having his Word, attending the gathering of his people, participating in or at least witnessing his ordinances (baptism and the Lord’s Supper) means that you have submitted yourself to the truth of Jesus. Rather, let every man examine himself (2 Cor. 13:5) and see if he believes and expresses that belief through obedience. Have a blessed week and we will see many of you on Sunday.
Unto Him be glory,
Pastor Dale
