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Chapter 77—Christ’s Trial Before the Roman
Governor
This chapter is based on
Matthew 27:2, 11-31
;
Mark 15:1-20
;
Luke
23:1-25
;
John 18:28-40
;
19:1-16
.
In the judgment hall of Pilate, the Roman governor, Christ stood
bound as a prisoner, about Him the guard of soldiers. The hall
was fast filling with spectators. Just outside were the judges of the
Sanhedrin, priests, rulers, and the mob.
After condemning Jesus, the Sanhedrin had come to Pilate to
have the sentence confirmed and executed. But these Jewish offi-
cials would not enter the Roman judgment hall. According to their
ceremonial law they would be defiled thereby and prevented from
taking part in the Passover. They did not see that murderous hatred
had defiled their hearts. They did not see that since they had rejected
Christ, the real Passover Lamb, the great feast had for them lost its
significance.
Pilate looked on the Saviour with no friendly eyes. Called from
his bedroom in haste, he determined to do his work as quickly as
possible. Assuming his severest expression, he turned to see what
kind of man he had to examine.
His gaze rested searchingly on Jesus. He had to deal with all
kinds of criminals, but never had a man of such goodness and nobility
been brought before him. On His face he saw no sign of guilt, no
fear, no boldness or defiance. He saw a man whose countenance
bore the signature of heaven.
Pilate’s better nature was roused. His wife had told him some-
thing of the wonderful deeds performed by the Galilean prophet,
who cured the sick and raised the dead. He recalled rumors that
he had heard from several sources. He demanded of the Jews their
[482]
charges against the prisoner. Who is this Man, and why have you
brought Him? They answered that He was a deceiver called Jesus of
Nazareth.
430