Lent DaysSample

Pilate was the Roman governor and was a shrewd and strict administrator. However, he tried to avoid the responsibility given by God. Power and responsibility could either be used for His glory or abused. It is the same with the talents, gifts, and skills provided by God. He asked the Jewish high priests to judge the high profile case by themselves. Later, he sent Jesus to Herod. He expected someone else to make decisions on his behalf. Pilate opted for the easy means.

Secondly, he tried to compromise. He had Jesus flogged, which was unlawful, to pacify the crying crowd. But it did not please the unruly mob. So he offered to release for them one of the prisoners. He tried to do the right thing in a wrong way. “End justifies the means” is the world’s philosophy.

At last, he washed his hands, according to the Jewish custom (Deut 21). He failed to do what was right and had power to do good but did not, so he sinned against God (James 4:17). Pilate gradually lost control of the situation.

We must not forget that he was not ignorant. His conscience and insight declared that Jesus was innocent. Also, as a senior administrator, he could see through the minds of the high priests. He understood that Jesus was arrested out of envy. He had a keen sense of justice. Apart from that, his wife had warned him.

Now the question arises: Why did he do so? It could be because of fear. They threatened that they shall complain to Caesar. He feared losing his position, power, wealth, etc. One who fears God need not fear man. God has not given us the spirit of fear.

Pilate was selfish and was aspiring for next promotion. He could allow justice to suffer for the sake of personal gain. Also, he wanted to please all. One who wants to please all can please none. Man must seek to please God alone.

He had no value for human life. If one more person was executed, will it make any difference? For Pilate, it would not.

How must we decide in such circumstances? Conscience, Scriptures, and Holy Spirit can help us to decide such matters. Any decision that violates the principles of Scripture is wrong.