Matthew 27:11-14 Jesus before Pilate

Now Jesus stood before the governor, and the governor questioned Him, saying, “Are You the King of the Jews?” And Jesus said to him, “It is as you say.” And while He was being accused by the chief priests and elders, He did not answer. Then Pilate said to Him, “Do You not hear how many things they testify against You?” And He did not answer him with regard to even a single charge, so the governor was quite amazed.

When we began our study this year, the purpose was to examine the words that Jesus spoke as recorded in the gospels. We have covered much ground with long discourses and sermons offered up by Jesus to the multitudes. We have seen over and over again, Jesus interpreting himself to his disciples because his speech was often in parables. Today who record the words Jesus said in defense for his own life before Pontius Pilate. His total words spoken were, “It is as you say.” It is very surprising to the governor and to us that Jesus said not a word in self-defense. He did not quarrel or even summon his disciples. Instead he allowed the sins of humankind to be charged against him as he prepares for his march to the cross for the forgiveness of our actual sins and reconciliation of humankind to the Father in heaven.

Daily Prayer: Lord Jesus, you are like us as You are the Son of Man, but quite different from us in that you defend not yourself, but depend only on God and His will for Your life. Glory be to You and the Father. Give us this day our daily bread and beyond that ask not for anything that You do not give. In Your Holy Name I pray Amen.