Matthew 27:3-23 / Episode 36 / Little Wretches

When Judas sees that Jesus has been condemned, he is filled with remorse. He returns the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders, confessing that he has betrayed innocent blood. The religious leaders refuse to take responsibility, so Judas throws the money into the temple and leaves. He then goes away and dies. Because the silver is considered blood money, the priests use it to buy the potter's field as a burial place for foreigners, fulfilling prophecy. Meanwhile, Jesus stands before Pontius Pilate. Pilate asks if He is the King of the Jews, and Jesus answers, "You have said so." Although the chief priests and elders continue accusing Him, Jesus remains silent, astonishing Pilate. During the Passover festival, it was customary for the governor to release one prisoner chosen by the crowd. Pilate offers them a choice between Jesus and the notorious prisoner Barabbas. Influenced by the chief priests and elders, the crowd demands that Barabbas be released and calls for Jesus to be crucified. When Pilate asks what Jesus has done wrong, the crowd only shouts louder, insisting, "Crucify Him!"