Jesus is Essential
John 18:39–40: “But you have a custom that I should release someone to you at the Passover. Do you therefore want me to release to you the King of the Jews?” Then they all cried again, saying, “Not this Man, but Barabbas!” Now Barabbas was a robber.
The Bible makes it clear that Pilate was assured that Jesus Christ was an innocent man:
“He knew that for envy they had delivered him” (Matt. 27:18).
“… I am innocent of the blood of this just person …” (Matt. 27:24).
“For he knew that the chief priests had delivered him for envy” (Mark 15:10).
“Pilate therefore, willing to release Jesus, spake again to them” (Luke 23:20).
“… I have found no cause of death in him …” (Luke 23:22).
“… I find in him no fault at all” (John 18:38).
“… From thenceforth Pilate sought to release him …” (John 19:12).
“… Pilate, when he was determined to let him go” (Acts 3:13).
In spite of all this, Pilate did not have the courage to release Him. 1
Walking with Jesus
Jesus saved us and then released us into the world to represent Him. Are you allowing Jesus to be released through your life? Is His Word being released into your heart, and mind, and soul each day? Is Jesus held captive in your heart because of unbelief and disobedience? Do you have more courage than Pilate? Release Jesus today to rule and reign over your entire life; In all your thoughts, words, and deeds.
Then he released Barabbas to them; and when he had scourged Jesus, he delivered Him to be crucified. Matthew 27:26
With all the evidence before us, the world still refuses to release Jesus.
Praying
Lord, teach me how to live a life dominated by the love of Jesus.
1. McGee, J. V. (1991). Thru the Bible commentary: The Gospels (John 11-21) (electronic ed., Vol. 39). Nashville: Thomas Nelson.
