The Third Trial. John 18:28-30 The political trial of Jesus started with Pilate asking a fair question to the Jews. "What accusation do you bring against Jesus?" The way they answered made it clear to Pilate that the Jews wanted Jesus to be sentenced to death. Accusing Jesus of being the king of the Jews had political consequences that Pilate knew he needed to consider. But Jesus's remarkable reply, that His kingdom was the kingdom of truth, caused Pilate to pause. He had been cynical and scornful of both the Jews and Jesus, but now he became more cautious and curious.
An appropriate response when challenged about our beliefs, convictions, or actions is not a quick, off-the-cuff remark. A thoughtful, intelligent reply to a question is never out of place. Taking the time to craft a responsible answer to people's sometimes cynical comments can transform an argumentative exchange into a meaningful discussion of truth. Jesus' response to Pilate prevented the judge from being merely a detached referee of a serious charge, turning him into someone personally involved in a moral and spiritual decision.
The comments Pilate made after Jesus said, "Everyone who is on the side of truth listens to Me," were serious. He understood it was envy that led to Jesus being brought to him by the Jews. He recognized Jesus as a just person, not a lawbreaker. He saw Jesus as an innocent victim of jealousy. However, this weak, indecisive, self-focused, cowardly judge was also a people-pleaser. What's worse, he cared more about his position than what was right and just. He was willing to break the law by having Jesus beaten and publicly humiliated, even though he declared Him innocent. The crown of thorns and purple robe did not satisfy the Jews’ anger and hostility. The leaders demanded the crucifixion of Jesus.
Far too often, the opinions of the unbelieving public around us intimidate us, and we find ourselves tempted to compromise what we know is right for the friendship of the world. "The friendship of the world is enmity against God." The god of this world will loudly proclaim the unfairness and narrow-mindedness of those who follow our Lord Jesus Christ. We do not have a positive influence on righteousness and truth by doing what is acceptable to a sin-loving majority.
When Pilate finally heard the Jews say Jesus claimed to be the Son of God, it filled him with fear. He had heard Jesus's authoritative words about the kingdom of truth. He understood that Jesus wasn't planning to conquer Rome with an army. But he also realized that nothing was hidden from Jesus. After Jesus plainly judged the entire situation in one short statement, Pilate could see the implications of what was unfolding before him. Pilate himself was indirectly judged for murder. They were all guilty to some degree or another. No wonder Pilate was afraid, because the King of Truth had just delivered a judgment on him that he knew was just. His own declaration of Jesus’s innocence was meaningless, and he knew it.
Being a crowd-pleaser is common among all of us. Most people succumb to pressure from peers or popular opinion and either stay silent or go along with what they know is wrong. A person's job, friendships, and public acceptance often cause someone to act like Pilate. He knew what he was doing was wrong. He knew the decision to release Jesus to be crucified was completely unjust, but he did it anyway. He could "wash his hands" of the whole matter as much as he wanted, but he was still guilty of supporting injustice and allowing a murder to happen openly and with his permission. He probably lived with a guilty conscience for the rest of his days.
We must dedicate ourselves to truth and righteousness regardless of what others say or do. We must be willing to do what is right even if others or the law believe otherwise. Our lives are to be lived for God and in accordance with His will because our King is the King of Truth.