"What We All Have in Common with Barabbas" (Mark 15:1-15) by Hiram Kemp

June 28, 2026 - Sunday AM Sermon   In this sermon-style episode Hiram walks through Mark 14–15 and the life of Barabbas to show how the Gospel confronts each listener personally. Using the betrayal, Jewish trials (Annas, Caiaphas), and Jesus’ appearance before Pilate as the backdrop, the sermon explains why the crowd demanded Barabbas instead of Jesus and how envy and deception drove that choice. Hiram outlines three clear parallels between Barabbas and every person: (1) we are guilty and condemned (drawing on Mark, Matthew, Luke, John, Psalm 51, Romans), (2) the world lies to us and deceives us about what will truly satisfy (referencing Genesis, 1 John, Hebrews, and cultural examples), and (3) Jesus steps into our place—taking the punishment we deserve so we might be offered forgiveness and new life (explained with Luke 23, 2 Corinthians, Isaiah 53, and other texts). The episode surveys many biblical cross-references (Isaiah, Psalms, Romans, Galatians, Hebrews, John, 1 Peter) and contemporary illustrations—like Project Innocence and modern cultural temptations—to show the timelessness of the message. The preacher emphasizes self-examination, the danger of rationalizing sin, and the need to see ourselves in Barabbas rather than only in the crowd condemning him. Key takeaways: honest confession of guilt, awareness of worldly deception, and the central Christian claim that Jesus took our place on the cross. The episode closes with a pastoral invitation to respond—repentance, confession of Christ, baptism, and pastoral support for those struggling with sin. Guests: none.   Duration 28:57