Tale of Two Trials (Roman Trial) John 18:28-38 An Unusual Roman Trial Jesus Before Pilate

Tale of Two Trials (Roman Trial) John 18:28-38 An Unusual Roman Trial The peculiarities of the Roman Procurator Pilate was not a noble character. Pilate’s mother-in-law was Julia, Augustus’ daughter of poor reputation. He became the sixth procurator of Judea. His predecessors were very careful to respect the Jewish rulers and to govern wisely. They avoided exhibiting flags, emblems, etc.

Tale of Two Trials (Roman Trial) John 18:28-38 An Unusual Roman Trial Pilate was not as careful and respectful. Upon arrival in Judea, Pilate sent soldiers to Jerusalem by night carrying ensigns blazoned with images of Tiberius. Pilate built an aqueduct from the Pools of Solomon to Jerusalem (a noble feat) with “Corban” treasury and, upon protest, had the crowd silenced with violence. Votive shields of Tiberius were placed in Herod’s Palace – later removed upon order.

Tale of Two Trials (Roman Trial) John 18:28-38 An Unusual Roman Trial The Gospel picture of Pilate is different. Pilate attempts to acquit Jesus. He reopens the case that was only there for his quick approval. Three times he declares Jesus innocent. He sends Jesus to Herod. He offers a choice between Jesus and Barabbas. He has Jesus scourged.

Tale of Two Trials (Roman Trial) John 18:28-38 An Unusual Roman Trial Behind every man Why the change in Pilate’s character? Why is Pilate trying to release Jesus? Was Pilate more noble than history states? Was Pilate impressed by Jesus? Is the best explanation found in a dream – Matthew 27:19?

Matthew 27:19 (NASB) 19  While he 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.”

Tale of Two Trials (Roman Trial) John 18:28-38 An Unusual Roman Trial Mystery #1 – Pilate acted very much out of character! Mystery #2 – In spite of Pilate’s desire and power to see his will carried out, in the end, Pilate consented to Jesus’ execution. Lesson #1 – You can’t be neutral with Jesus. Lesson #2 – Be prepared for life’s crises.

Tale of Two Trials (Roman Trial) John 18:28-38 Jesus Before Pilate The formal indictment – verse 29 Jewish leaders are caught by surprise. Jewish leaders thought this to be only a formality – verse 30. Pilate demands a formal charge – Acts 25:16.

Acts 25:16 (NASB) 16  I answered them that it is not the custom of the Romans to hand over any man before the accused meets his accusers face to face and has an opportunity to make his defense against the charges.

Tale of Two Trials (Roman Trial) John 18:28-38 Jesus Before Pilate The formal indictment – verse 29 Jewish leaders are caught by surprise. Jewish leaders thought this to be only a formality – verse 30. Pilate demands a formal charge – Acts 25:16. Jesus was “perverting the nation.” Jesus was an insurrectionist. Jesus claimed to be king.

Tale of Two Trials (Roman Trial) John 18:28-38 Jesus Before Pilate The Examination “Are you the King of the Jews?” Jesus replies by asking if the question is from the Jewish or the Roman perspective. They bring two different answers. Pilate asks, “Am I a Jew?”

Tale of Two Trials (Roman Trial) John 18:28-38 Jesus Before Pilate The Defense Jesus enters a plea of confession and avoidance – admitting with explanation. “My kingdom is not of this world.” “So You are a king?” “Yes, it is for what I was born.” “It is a kingdom of truth” – of the mind. Pilate ascertains that Jesus is at worst a religious fanatic.

Tale of Two Trials (Roman Trial) John 18:28-38 Jesus Before Pilate The Verdict Pilate found no basis for the charges against Jesus. Pilate had tried and acquitted Jesus! At this point, Pilate had done nothing wrong. Pilate had done everything right. Instead of releasing Jesus, Pilate now begins all the illegalities that will lead to Jesus’ execution.

Tale of Two Trials (Roman Trial) John 18:28-38 Application Are you like Pilate, knowing the “truth,” arriving at the right conclusion, yet avoiding the right response? As an unbeliever? As a believer?