Matthew 27:11-26 Jesus Before Pilate

Jesus could have talked his way out of trouble, but he chose to be silent. Pilate was impressed by his composure. He did not become defensive because he understood his identity and mission well. Also, he had prepared in prayer for these events. Would I have the same composure under similar circumstances? Would I stand before the world strong and steadfast when persecution breaks out against me for my faith? When accused, even if falsely, I become defensive. I give way to many words trying to explain myself. Jesus instructs me to rely on the Holy Spirit for the words I am to speak under such circumstances.

False accusations did not get to Jesus. But it is more amazing to see that he does not loose his cool when the crowd chooses Barabbas over him. What did Barabbas ever do for them? He was a robber and a zealot who probably killed a few Romans. Jesus, on the other hand, healed many of them. He fed thousands of them on different occasions. He taught them with authority the things of the kingdom of God. This world will always prefer their own. It does not matter how well I serve people. Why am I surprised when people cling to their own?

Now, to top it all off, the crowd requests Jesus' death. It is one thing to be falsely accused and to be set aside for another, but to desire his death is definitely one of the most hurtful things Jesus experienced. The one who healed is given to die. The one who used his hands to touch the sick receives a slap. Pastor Fred Winters was gunned down while preaching after 22 years of ministry to the community of Maryville. The world hates preachers. Can I accept that? Will I shrink from preaching because of that risk? Preachers may have to start wearing bullet-proof vests before walking to the pulpit.

As Pilate washed his hands to declare his innocence of Jesus' death, the crowd declares "His blood be on us and our children!" Jesus came to the world to offer his blood for the forgiveness of the world and not to condemn it. I cannot be indifferent like Pilate and try to justify myself of Jesus' death. Ultimately, my sin is the cause of his death. I cannot excuse myself. On the other hand, I am not to take his blood upon me in guilt and shame because Christ came to remove my guilt and shame through his blood. His blood has cleansed me and given me life.

Heavenly Father, thank you for your Son Jesus Christ who came into the world to offer me forgiveness and life. Help me stand firm in this world knowing that it is not my home. Help me understand that the world will love its own and I am like a sheep among wolves.