Pilate has cleared Jesus of all charges. But the Jewish leaders aren't...
Lenten Devotions from Lutheran Hour Ministries
"Change of Venue"
April 9, 2017
And when he (Pilate) learned that He belonged to Herod's jurisdiction, he sent Him over to Herod, who was himself in Jerusalem at that time. (Luke 23:7, ESV)
Read Luke 9:7-9; 23:5-12
Pilate has cleared Jesus of all charges. But the Jewish leaders aren't letting up. Jesus is simply too dangerous. He has stirred up the whole nation, beginning in Herod's Galilee, all the way down here to Pilate's Judea. But their words give Pilate a brilliant idea. Since Jesus came from Herod's jurisdiction, he'll shift the responsibility for this case and let Herod deal with it.
Herod is Jesus' judge, but he doesn't ask a single judicial question, nor does he examine the charges against Jesus. Herod has long wanted to see Jesus. But he's not interested in God's truth; he wants to be entertained by a miracle, catch a good performance, perhaps. So Jesus remains silent.
The Jewish high court strenuously presses its charges, hoping to get a more favorable reaction from Herod. But Herod absolutely refuses to hold a trial. His subjects already hate him for executing John the Baptist, and he isn't about to touch this Jesus fellow.
Since Jesus answers Herod's questions and pleas with silence, Herod feels Jesus is treating him with contempt-so he returns the favor. Along with his soldiers Herod treats Jesus with scorn and disrespect, as if He was nothing. He dresses Jesus in splendid garments; then he sends him back to Pilate. The two governors agree: if Jesus is a king, He appears harmless.
But this day does see one reconciliation. Previously, Pilate and Herod had been bitter enemies; now they become friends. Herod is grateful that Pilate sent Jesus' case to him. Pilate is grateful that Herod recognized his authority and was courteous enough to return Jesus to Pilate's jurisdiction.
THE PRAYER: Lord Jesus, the Jews falsely accused You; Pilate judged You innocent but wouldn't free You, and Herod was looking to be entertained. Give me faith to worship You in truth and humility as my Savior, King and Lord. Amen
Use these devotions in your newsletter and bulletin! Used by permission; all rights reserved by the Int'l LLL (LHM).
No comments:
Post a Comment