What can we learn from Pilate's actions about standing firm in our convictions? Setting the Scene Luke 23:20: “Wanting to release Jesus, Pilate addressed them again.” Pilate’s Clear Conviction - He publicly declared Jesus innocent (Luke 23:4, 14-15). - He sensed the religious leaders’ envy (Matthew 27:18). - God even sent a warning through his wife’s dream (Matthew 27:19). - Conscience, evidence, and divine counsel all pointed in one direction: release Jesus. The Battle of Pressures - Political survival: “If you release this Man, you are no friend of Caesar” (John 19:12). - Fear of riot: Jerusalem was tense at Passover (Matthew 27:24). - Personal reputation: a prefect could not appear weak. - Result: repeated attempts to sidestep decision—sending Jesus to Herod, proposing Barabbas, ordering a scourging first. The Slippery Slope of Compromise - Small concessions invite larger ones. - Pilate’s half-measures emboldened the crowd. - At last he “washed his hands” (Matthew 27:24) yet signed the death warrant. - James 4:17: “If anyone knows the right thing to do but fails to do it, he sins.” - Proverbs 29:25: “The fear of man is a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is set securely on high.” Lessons for Our Convictions • Decide early—delay erodes resolve. • Heed God’s warnings; they are mercies, not interruptions. • Fear God above people (Galatians 1:10). • Refuse cosmetic gestures; integrity requires substance, not symbolism. • Remember the cost of silence—Pilate gained momentary peace, yet his name is forever tied to injustice. Anchors That Hold Us Steady 1. God’s unchanging Word (Psalm 119:105). 2. The Spirit of power, love, and self-control (2 Timothy 1:7). 3. Courageous examples: Peter and John—“We cannot stop speaking about what we have seen and heard” (Acts 4:19-20). 4. Fellowship that provokes love and good deeds (Hebrews 10:24-25). 5. Eternal accountability: “We must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ” (2 Corinthians 5:10). Living It Out - Settle biblical convictions before the crowd gathers. - Speak truth graciously and firmly (Ephesians 4:15). - Accept that obedience may cost status, comfort, or friends (Luke 9:23). - Keep eyes on Jesus, who “committed no sin, yet … entrusted Himself to Him who judges justly” (1 Peter 2:23). |
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