The Sentencing Of Jesus Series

Sentencing of Jesus

John 19:1-16

This message can sometimes invoke different responses in many

For some, it is sadness, others anger, and even some may feel justified (read)

∆ Roman Punishment

Roman punishment always began with humiliation

Flogging, crown of thorns, and mockery were meant to enforce power

They are hallmarks of cruelty – the deepest most sinful part of mankind

Pilate had one intention: beat Jesus and release him

His view: If I can send a msg, this rebellion will be over and done with

IMP: the beating He rcvd would’ve weakened him almost to point of death

This is why he is unable to carry his cross; physically tormented/worn out

After the beating, it would be tradition to present the prisoner

While the flogging would’ve been public, not everyone would be able to see

Therefore, Pilate presents Jesus to further humiliate him

But notice (v4) he finds no legal reason to hold him or execute him

His thought is that with a beaten and bloody man before them, it would end

They would see that Jesus has suffered, and could be released

Their vision of Him though, has fed a thirst for blood – they want more

In mob fashion – they shout “crucify” (v6) – why? They want Him dead

Pilate however, does not want to kill Jesus; this is interesting for us…

He finds no cause, and knowing the Jews cannot kill Him wishes to release

But, the leaders finally settle on a charge they can use: blasphemy

John has already recorded that this would be their charge: Read John 10:34-38

Crime: Leviticus 24:16, “… anyone who blasphemes the name of the LORD is to be put to death. The entire assembly must stone them. Whether foreigner or native-born, when they blaspheme the Name they are to be put to death.”

∆ Pilate has a Problem

Pilate is actually horrified at this suggestion (he was afraid, v8)

He returns to discuss with Jesus these charges and perhaps get Him to talk

Pilate’s fear is found in several REAL aspects:

Mob mentality outside the palace could revolt on Him

Caesar getting word that he cannot handle his position

This is a real problem for him, and even one the Jews knew as well

The Gospels mention that Jesus remains silent through all the interrogations

He is not drawn into a debate with His accusers for any reason

But here, He answers Pilate once and for all (read v11)

Re: authority is God’s: Romans 13:1, “Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.”

Compounding this response, the crowd is still screaming for blood

And then the Jewish leaders level the final threat against Pilate and his position

V12: “If you let this man go, you are no friend of Caesar. Anyone who claims to be a king opposes Caesar.”

This decision he is about to make is SOLELY a political one

APP: To be against the King would mean the end of everything he holds dear

He fears for his position, for his wants, and for his own neck in this area

So, he brings Jesus out to pronounce judgment on Him (re: Romans 13:1 above)

∆ Big Idea

With the crowd in a frenzy, Pilate fearing for himself, knows what he faces

Re: Tiberias is the reigning emperor (viscous man) and would happily taken Pilate out

Therefore, he relents to a decision that he knows he will regret – “crucify him”

This decision sets in motion the greatest redemption that every happened

Pick up on Sunday …