Matthew 27:19-26 NASB While he was sitting on the judgment seat, his wife sent him a message, saying, “Have nothing to do with that righteous Man; for last night I suffered greatly in a dream because of Him.” [20] But the chief priests and the elders persuaded the crowds to ask for Barabbas and to put Jesus to death. [21] But the governor 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, “Crucify Him!” [23] And he said, “Why, what evil has He done?” But they kept shouting all the more, saying, “Crucify Him!” [24] When Pilate saw that he was accomplishing nothing, but rather that a riot was starting, he took water and washed his hands in front of the crowd, saying, “I am innocent of this Man’s blood; see to that yourselves.” [25] And all the people said, “His blood shall be on us and on our children!” [26] Then he released Barabbas for them; but after having Jesus scourged, he handed Him over to be crucified.