Matthew 27:11-26 The Undoing of Pilate

My commentary started this section by showing how Pilate fit the bill for his position in this drama:  "He was not liked by the Jews because he did things that deliberately violated their law and provoked them.  He was not above killing people to accomplish his purposes."  Wee, he ought to get along great with that Jewish council!  Sounds just like them!  

The Jewish council had carefully crafted three charges against Jesus specifically designed to require Pilate to act:  "1) He was misleading the nation; 2) He was forbidding the payment of taxes, and 3) He was claiming to be king."  These got Pilate involved, because they threatened Roman rule."

Pilate, ever the politician concerned about maintaining his lifestyle, chose the "claiming to be king" charge.  "If he could deal with this revolutionary properly, Pilate could please the Jews AND impress the emperor at the same time," my commentary said.  However, once he and Jesus talked, Pilate was convinced Jesus posed no danger, and he was ready to free him.  Even a side visit to Herod, though, didn't go his way.

He then saw another opportunity in the annual tradition of releasing a prisoner during Passover.  He picked the vilest man in custody -- one no person would want released in his town -- yet the Jewish leaders incited the crowd to select him over Jesus!  The leaders were beginning a riot that they always fought against during Passover!  Pilate relented, and went down in history as the man who condemned Jesus to die.

Father, I know it was actually my sin that Jesus died for, taking them from me and placing them on my behalf upon Himself and facing Your wrath over them so I would never have to.  Even acknowledging this, I still find myself adding to that list of sins, yet He died for all of them -- even my future sins.  I will never be able to finish saying thank You when I see You both someday!

 

Your Brother In Christ,
Gary Ford