Jun 19, 2022
Scripture Reading: John 18:28-40
After being up all night, both praying and being questioned by Annas and Caiaphas, Jesus endured the Roman stage of His trial. At daybreak, the Sanhedrin Council made a formal charge and sent Jesus to Pilate, the Roman governor of Judea. There were three components of the Roman stage of Jesus' trial. Jesus was questioned by Pilate, then by Herod, then by Pilate again.
John's gospel contains the fullest account of this part of Jesus' trial. One element that stands out here is Pilate's recognition of Jesus' innocence and his unwillingness, therefore, to pronounce a judgment. John tells us that Pilate declared Jesus innocent three separate times (Jn 18:38; 19:4,6). This does not absolve Pilate from guilt, but highlights the unmistakable wickedness being brought to bear against Christ. Matthew tells us of Pilate's public, symbolic washing of his hands in an effort to distance himself from this injustice (Mt 27:24).
A second element that stands out from this story is the pronounced silence of our Lord. Not that Jesus said absolutely nothing throughout the trial. Jesus did respond to some statements, but in general, He was silent (Mt 26:63; 27:12,14; Lk 23:9). Doesn’t Jesus know that His silence will incriminate Him? … that without a defense, there will be no chance for His release? The answer is a resounding 'Yes.' Jesus is not being taken. He is giving Himself. He is not a reluctant sacrifice, but a willing sacrifice. Behold, how He loves us. "I hear the words of love, I gaze upon the blood, I see the mighty sacrifice, and I have peace with God."