One of the most tragic contradictions in human behaviour is that people constantly choose what is most harmful to them. As long as it pleases them at present, the later effect mean little or nothing to them. About 2,000 years ago the Jews demanded the release of a murderer named Barabbas instead of their Messiah. "Release to us Barabbas!" they clamoured. Since then people have frequently got their "Barabbas" (The pleasure that later stings).
By preferring Barabbas, they also chose the principle,nature and character which he represented: doing what they liked as "free" people, even if it hurts or cause damage to others or even to themselves.
Today we have a similar choice to make. If we choose to go for the egotistic way of life that is predominant in the world at present, we shall reap its fruit (Judgment and eternal condemnation).
Was there no alternative in Jerusalem at that time? Certainly! They could have chosen their Messiah, Jesus of Nazareth. He had not come to do what He wants on His own, but what God,His Father who sent Him, wants which is to rescue man from the wrath of God which would soon be poured on unrepentant sinners (Those who choose to live without God, or who refused to obey His life giving instructions). Though the lives of people meant nothing to Barabbas, Jesus Christ on the other hand,sacrificed His own life on the cross for the salvation of many people (who were completely lost in sin,including those who demanded for His crucifixion).
Now we are certainly not insinuating that anyone sympathizes with a criminal like Barabbas. However, the principle that Barabbas incorporates, doing what he like, applies more or less to everybody. In God's sight that is self-will,and that which can never produce the righteousness He requires. Therefore we all need Jesus Christ as our redeemer. He is holding out His saving hand to all who wish to put things right with God.