These are hard passages to read when you really let the reality of what is happening sink in. Jesus was innocent of any crime deserving the death penalty. Being hailed as “King of the Jews” was the truth. Yet, it was shouted in anger, in disgust, in mockery. They were certainly thinking, if Jesus was truly a king, he would not be in a position such as this.
As a kid growing up, I always thought the bad guy was Pilate. I suppose a Roman governor was considered a “bad guy” by many of the Jews for how he treated them. The Roman rule was oppressive and the people wanted to revolt against him. Yet the Pilate we see in today’s story seemed to have a bit of a conscience.
Pilate was perplexed to be sure by Jesus’ lack of defense. By Matthew’s perspective it would be inappropriate for Jesus to put on a defense because he was claiming to be king, the Messiah, the son of God. Jesus knew his death was imminent. It made no sense to fight it.
Do you wonder how much of what was happening in the hillsides in Palestine was newsworthy and interesting to Pilate? If he knew that Jesus had been teaching and healing in the area he ruled, you’d think he would have gotten wind of it. No matter what he knew, Pilate was smart enough to observe that the religious leaders had Jesus arrested out of envy.
Pilate washed his hands of this whole affair. He didn’t want Jesus’ blood on his hands. The crowd took responsibility. The crowd and the religious leaders who were encouraging them. This then becomes a bit of a theological conviction that Israel, as a whole, has rejected its Messiah. Some would say that as a consequence they should lose their position as God’s chosen people.
So if Pilate wanted to have immunity surround Jesus’ death, why did he order Jesus to be beaten and flogged? Pilate’s own soldiers treated Jesus with brutality and disrespect. Oh the irony! While these mockers dress Jesus up as king, they don’t realize he is actually the King of Kings, at whose name every knee will bow (Philippians 2:10-11).
It was how God’s plan played out. It wasn’t pretty at all. So many players had to be manipulated to make sure the sacrifice took place. God’s will is like that. When he has an intention, the pieces fall into place beautifully. When we try to ramrod something, hoping it’s God’s will or at least that he will bless our plans, we are often left disappointed.
Take some time today to quietly reflect on Jesus’ arrest and trial. It’s hard to put ourselves into the time and place due, in part, to our cultural differences. What are your observations?
Let’s pray. Lord, I am overwhelmed by your great love for me. I can’t imagine going through what you did for me. Not only did you endure physical abuse, but the mental agony was intense. I am overcome with emotion and gratitude. I feel blessed beyond measure that I can call myself a daughter of the king. You are the king of my life. Rule in my heart, mind, and soul. Help me to stand firm and be the follower you want me to be. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
