People Who Tried to Kill Jesus

[전승훈2]

Summary:

Jesus is brought to the Roman governor Pilate early in the morning. The Jewish leaders avoid entering the governor’s residence to remain ceremonially clean for Passover. Pilate asks for the charges against Jesus. The leaders claim He is a criminal but do not specify charges. Pilate tells them to judge Jesus themselves, but they reply that they are not allowed to execute anyone. This fulfills Jesus’ earlier words about the manner of His death.

Teaching:

Governor Pilate originally had no intention of arresting Jesus. He did not see the issue of Jesus of Nazareth as a political matter requiring Roman involvement, but rather as a religious dispute among the Jews. Therefore, he was displeased that they brought the matter to him.

Jesus, who is the Son of God, the Lord of the temple, and the temple itself, was handed over by the high priests - who served the temple - to Pilate, whom they considered more righteous than Jesus. Eventually, they killed Him. The entire council condemned Jesus to death.

“If this Man were not a criminal, we would not have handed Him over to you.”

The Jews made this brazen statement as they handed Jesus over to Pilate. When people do evil, their faces become shameless, and that shamelessness stems from ignorance and foolishness. They knew the Law, but they did not know Jesus—who is greater than the Law.

In other words, simply memorizing many Bible verses does not mean one truly believes in Jesus. To believe in Jesus, one must understand God's plan - must recognize the Christ whom God has sent.

Excerpt from the sermon by Pastor Lee, May 22, 2025.

John 18:28-32

(D-98)