Wanting to release Jesus, Pilate appealed to them again. But they kept shouting, "Crucify him! Crucify him!"
Pilate wanted to do the right thing and release Jesus. For a while he was listening to his conscience. As he said, neither he nor Herod found any basis for the charges against the Teacher.
But there was something drowning out Pilate’s better judgment. It was the voice of the people shouting for Jesus’ death.
And there was something Pilate wanted more than a clear conscience. He wanted to please the people, keep the peace and advance his career as a good administrator for Rome.
To his credit, Pilate tried. Three times he appealed to the people to change their mind. And yet, to his eternal shame, he gave in when it mattered most.
But with loud shouts they insistently demanded that he be crucified, and their shouts prevailed. So Pilate decided to grant their demand.And their shouts prevailed.
Students of Jesus take note. In the din of voices, they listen for one still small voice. The voice that is always right in every circumstance of life.
Not the voice of the people, but the Voice of the Teacher.
The crowd wanting to put him to death - were the religious leaders. And Jewish - maybe a bit far off - but it equated to his relatives.
ReplyDeleteIncredibly, much of the persecution we may face will come from some of the same areas. Family, and church family.
It is hard to stand strong when you're being accused, frowned upon, and discouraged by those who should be supporting you.
How are you at standing up for the Teacher when those around you are discouraging or accusing?
Pray for boldness, stand strong in his mighty power, but be ready...