Pilate’s Problem

Pilate was quite frustrated with Jesus.  In John 18:34-38, Jesus offered no defense when the Jews demanded He be crucified.  Pilate was used to raving anarchists and snarling murderers before him, but Jesus was gentle and showed no hint of hate or outrage.  What startled Pilate even more was Jesus’ statement, “If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants would be fighting, that I might not be delivered up to the Jews; but as it is, My kingdom is not of this realm.”  Jesus would not fight or hate.

Jesus lived what he taught.  He had instructed His followers to “love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.” (Lk 6:27-28).  In Pilate’s mean world, he had never seen godly behaviour.  History claims it changed the man forever. Continue reading