How should Pilate's inquiry in John 18:35 influence our witness to non-believers? The Setting of Pilate’s Question “Am I a Jew?” Pilate replied. “Your own people and chief priests handed You over to me. What have You done?” (John 18:35) • Roman governor, outsider to Israel’s faith • Confronted with Jesus yet unsure what to make of Him • Looks for a political offense, not spiritual truth What Pilate’s Inquiry Reveals about the Unbelieving Heart • Assumes neutrality: thinks the issue is only for “Jews,” distancing himself from personal responsibility (cf. Acts 24:24–25) • Sees Jesus through second-hand accusations, not firsthand evidence • Focuses on external behavior (“What have You done?”) rather than identity (“Who are You?”) • Eager to avoid costly commitment (John 19:12–16) Lessons for Our Witness • Expect initial detachment—many will assume the gospel is “someone else’s concern.” • Move from hearsay to firsthand: invite people to consider Jesus’ own words (John 5:39–40). • Shift the conversation from deeds to identity: Jesus is King and Savior (John 18:36–37). • Confront personal accountability: everyone must decide what to do with Christ (Acts 17:30–31). Practical Applications • Clarify misconceptions gently—explain that Christianity addresses every nation, not one ethnic group (Romans 3:29). • Present Scripture plainly; the Word carries its own authority (Hebrews 4:12). • Testify to what Jesus has done in you; give eyewitness rather than mere argument (1 Peter 3:15). • Keep the focus on Christ’s kingship and cross, not side issues (1 Corinthians 2:2). • Urge a personal verdict—“What will you do with Jesus?”—because neutrality is impossible (John 3:18–19). Encouragement for Faithful Witness • Some, like Pilate, may evade, but others—think the centurion at the cross—will confess, “Truly this was the Son of God” (Matthew 27:54). • Our role is to present Christ clearly; the Spirit convicts and opens eyes that are now blinded (2 Corinthians 4:4–6). |
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