Matthew 27:11-31
Q.1. Why did Jesus reply to Pilate, but not to the chief priests and elders? What had Pilate concluded about the charges? Why did he offer the release of a prisoner? – (Mt.27:11-18)
Jesus willingly responded to the ignorant Roman Governor, Pontius Pilate. He acknowledged to Pilate that He was indeed the promised King of Israel (Mt.27:11-12). He gave no response to the chief priests because they had no interest in the truth and blasphemed against the Holy Spirit – an unforgivable sin (Mark 3:28-30). Pilate was amazed that Jesus said nothing to defend Himself against their false charges – For he knew that because of envy they had handed Him over (Mt.27:18). Pilate, instead of exonerating Jesus, gave the Jewish mob an offer of releasing a prisoner. It was his custom to release a criminal at a Jewish Feast. This may have been a weak attempt to free Jesus.
Q.2. Was Pilate wise to ignore the warning of his wife? Who was Barabbas? Why did the crowds want Jesus crucified? How great was their folly? – (Mt.27:19-25)
While Pilate was sitting on the judgment seat – … his wife sent him a message, saying, “Have nothing to do with that righteous Man; for last night I suffered greatly in a dream because of Him.” (Mt.27:19). However, to his everlasting shame, Pilate foolishly rejected her warning. Barabbas was a notorious prisoner and a murderer (Mt.27:16 c.f. Mk.15:7). Pilate’s attempts to free Jesus backfired. The determined leaders persuaded the crowds to ask for the release of Barabbas, and the crucifixion of Jesus (Mt.27:20-23). The people made a chilling decision for themselves and for future generations. They insisted – His blood be on us and on our children! (Mt.27:25). Jesus had healed their sick, and with integrity had taught the ways of God. They rejected their King on what we call ‘Palm Sunday’. Now they callously called for the blood of the only perfect sinless Man to walk on the earth. This was to fulfill God’s Word – so that upon you may fall the guilt of all the righteous blood shed on earth, from the blood of righteous Abel to the blood of Zechariah … whom you murdered between the temple and the altar (Mt.23:35 c.f. Zech.1:1).
Q.3. Did Pilate consider Jesus guilty of any crime? How did he try to distance himself from their determination? How was Jesus treated by Pilate and his soldiers? – (Mt.27:23-31)
Pilate was in no doubt that Jesus was innocent. He told the religious leaders that neither Herod nor he had found that – He has done nothing to deserve death (c.f. Lk.23:15). Pilate knew that this was manifestly unjust. However, he washed his hands, declaring – I am innocent of this Man’s blood (Mt.27:24). No ritual washing could remove the stain from the hands of Pilate. There were many players guilty of Christ’s death, especially the Jewish leaders and the people. However, the Scriptures leave us in no doubt that Jesus became the sinners’ substitute and sin-bearer. This included the faithful women, the frightened disciples, all who trusted in God before the atonement, and all who have placed their trust in Jesus since the resurrection. We say – Hallelujah, what a Saviour! The scourging of Jesus would have almost killed Him (Mt.27:26). However, they were far from finished with their cruel sport. A battalion of soldiers now stripped Him, pressed the poisonous crown of thorns on His head, bowed in mock worship, beat Him more severely, and spat on Him as a prelude to killing Him in the most painful way possible. None of the ugliness of sinners was withheld from the Son of God for you and me (Mt.27:27-31).