What lessons can we learn from Pilate's wife's attempt to influence Pilate? Setting the Scene Matthew 27:19: “While Pilate was sitting on the judgment seat, his wife sent him this message: ‘Have nothing to do with that innocent man, for I have suffered terribly in a dream today because of Him.’” The Gentle Warning • God used an unexpected voice—Pilate’s pagan wife—to deliver truth at a crucial moment. • Her dream was no random nightmare; Scripture shows God often speaks through dreams (Job 33:15-16). • The message was clear: Jesus is innocent. Even Rome’s household received testimony to His righteousness. Lessons Learned 1. God’s Reach Is Unrestricted • He can warn anyone, anywhere—believer or unbeliever. • Romans 1:19-20 affirms that God makes Himself known through various means so that people are “without excuse.” 2. Timely Counsel Demands Action • Proverbs 19:20: “Listen to counsel and accept discipline, that you may be wise in the latter days.” • Pilate heard but hesitated; delay often equals disobedience. 3. Moral Clarity Requires Moral Courage • James 4:17: “Therefore, whoever knows the right thing to do, yet fails to do it, is guilty of sin.” • Pilate acknowledged Jesus’ innocence (Luke 23:4,14,22) yet caved to pressure. 4. Private Conviction Must Trump Public Pressure • Acts 5:29: “We must obey God rather than men.” • Pilate feared riots more than righteousness, illustrating the peril of seeking approval over truth. Heeding God in the Midst of Crisis • Recognize divine nudges—whether through Scripture, conscience, or wise counsel. • Respond swiftly; the window to act righteously can close quickly. • Remember that popular opinion rarely aligns with God’s verdict (Isaiah 53:3). The Cost of Ignoring Godly Counsel • Pilate’s name is forever linked to the crucifixion, a sobering reminder that reluctance becomes responsibility. • Matthew 27:24 shows him symbolically washing his hands, yet guilt remained because innocence had been betrayed. Encouragement for Today • If God can reach Pilate’s household, He can reach ours—so keep praying for loved ones who seem far from truth. • Value the voices God sends; they may come from unexpected sources but carry life-altering weight. • Stand firm when righteousness is clear; fleeting approval is never worth a compromised conscience. |
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