John 19:9-16
Find a place and time free of distractions for the next 7-10 minutes. Sit comfortably and breathe deeply for a few seconds before you begin. If you haven’t read the Introduction to John’s Gospel, read it here.
In our last passage we saw the religious leaders of Israel accuse Jesus of claiming a title reserved for Caesar, the Emperor of Rome. Read John 19:9-16 with this in mind.
Pilate knows that Jesus is not guilty of an attempt to incite a revolt against Roman authority, but his fear of the growing unrest among the religious leaders of Israel outweighs any sense of fairness that may be lurking in his mind. Still, he takes Jesus, bruised and bloodied from the abuse of the Roman soldiers and attempts to illicit a confession or a plausible defense.
But Jesus is silent until Pilate claims to have power over him. Power was given to humans at creation and is not evil in and of itself. It is the misuse of power to perpetuate injustice and foster oppression that distorts God’s good and perfect ways.
We all have power to one degree or another no matter how powerless we feel at times. Stop to consider this idea of power as a force for good and justice. How are you seeking to use your influence and power in these ways? Talk to Jesus about this.
Read John 19:9-16 again noticing to whom the religious leaders of Israel claim allegiance.
Pilate’s questions seem to indicate that Jesus’ presence and words have stirred something deep inside him causing him to question his former beliefs, but rather than turn to Jesus in faith, he allows the pressure of the Jewish religious leaders to lead him further into the same sin of which they are doubly guilty.
The religious leaders are so intent on permanently silencing the threat to their power, position and privilege, that they commit the very sin they have been accusing Jesus of – blasphemy. The King of Israel is ultimately God alone, but these men, these keepers and teachers of the law of Israel, loudly reject God as King and pledge their allegiance to Caesar.
The essence of sin is rejection of God. Jesus, God in the flesh, stands before Pilate and the leaders of Israel and both cast him aside. The judgment Pilate renders is the ultimate distortion of shalom.
Sit in silence for a moment and become aware of the presence of Jesus with you. Consider asking the Spirit of Jesus to examine your loyalties and allegiances. You can use these questions for this time of examination if you wish:
• Is there anyone or any group to whom I am more loyal than I am to Jesus?
• Is Jesus the lens through which I view and understand all other authorities?
• What do I believe Jesus is saying to me about power, authority and allegiance?
• What do I plan to do in response?
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