What does Matthew 27:22 mean?

Despite Jesus' popularity (Matthew 21:10–11), obvious innocence (Matthew 27:18; John 18:33–36), and comparison to a confirmed murderer (Matthew 27:15–16; Mark 15:7), the crowd has asked to release the convicted man (Matthew 27:17–20). Pilate seems surprised. He seems to have thought that if given the choice, the people would surely want Jesus to be freed instead of killed.

Records from outside the Bible indicate Pilate showed little respect for Jewish religious leaders, let alone the people themselves. Most likely, he underestimated the influence of Jerusalem's priests among the people. Shocked by the cries to release Barabbas, Pilate calls out to ask the people what should be done with Jesus. They shout back, as they have been coached to do by the members of the Sanhedrin, that Jesus should be crucified. This is an especially shocking demand, as crucifixion was purposefully designed to be humiliating and agonizing. John's account of this moment shows Pilate responding with outrage (John 19:6; Matthew 27:23).

Pilate will attempt to ask more questions of the crowd, but you can't have a conversation with a mob. They have made their choice. Pilate's options are dwindling. Jewish religious leaders are taking advantage of Pilate's strained political tenure; the threat of civil unrest will become a deciding factor in the governor's decision (Matthew 27:24).