Luke 23:1-25
Q.1. What made the charges by the Jews against Jesus so hypocritical? To what conclusion did Pilate come? – (Lk.23:1-5)
The Jews hated their Roman overlord but had to work within the system. They took Jesus to Pontius Pilate, the Roman Governor (Lk.23:1) To falsely accuse Jesus of forbidding the paying of taxes to Rome, and of setting Himself up as a rival to Caesar was the height of hypocrisy (Lk.23:2, 5). Because Jesus told Pilate that He was the King of the Jews, Pilate realised that it was a religious and not political issue (Lk.23:3). Consequently, Pilate concluded – I find no guilt in this man (Lk.23:4). Since Jesus came under the jurisdiction of Galilee, Pilate sent them all to King Herod (Lk.23:6-7).
Q.2. What interest did Herod have in Jesus? How did he and his soldiers respond to the silence of Jesus? – (Lk.23:6-12)
Herod had beautified the Temple precinct (Lk.21:5 & Acts.3:2). However, his reign was built on intrigue and murder. He was only interested in seeing a miracle for entertainment (Lk.23:8). Jesus had readily conversed with the Gentile governor, but here He refused to respond to the Jewish leaders, or a pretender to Israel’s throne, since they were familiar with the Scriptures (Lk.23:9). Herod’s attitude quickly turned to contempt. He allowed despicable mocking of Jesus (Lk.23:10-11). The collusion between Pilate and Herod concerning Jesus, lessened the disdain that these men had for one another (Lk.23:12).
Q.3. What made the indictment of Jesus such a violation of justice? How did the offences of Jesus compare with those of Barabbas? – (Lk.23:13-25)
Neither Pilate nor Herod had found anything deserving of death in Jesus (Lk.23:13-15). Jesus should have been set free. Pilate was expected to release a criminal at the Passover Feast (Lk.23:17). The Jews then cried out for the release of Barabbas, rather than Jesus. Barabbas had been found guilty of insurrection and murder (Lk.23:18-19, 25). The crowds who had so recently been transfixed by the ministry of Jesus, angrily turned against Him, having been aided and abetted by the Jewish leaders (c.f. Mt.27:20). Despite Pilate’s protest – Why, what evil has He done? I have found in Him no guilt demanding death … (Lk.23:22). The voices of the Jewish leaders and people prevailed (Lk.23:23).Â