Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Mark 15:14

"And Pilate said unto them, Why, what evil hath he done? But they cried out exceedingly, Crucify him." — Mark 15:14 (ASV)

Pilate’s question is surprising (v.12). Apparently he held out other options than crucifixion for Jesus. If Barabbas was to be released, what should he do with Jesus? Was he suggesting the possibility of releasing Jesus too? Whatever was going through his mind, it is clear that he was reluctant to carry out the murderous intent of the chief priests. But his attempt to change the mind of the crowd failed. The chief priests had stirred them up to a frenzy. “Crucify him!” they shouted. And when Pilate, in a final attempt to save Jesus, asked, “Why? What crime has he committed?” the crowd, now a mob, ignored his question. They had reached a stage where they were beyond reason. No death for Jesus but crucifixion would satisfy them.