Title: Lessons from Pilate/Matthew 27:11-28
Content I. Let's listen to a small voice. (11-12)
Pilate listened only to the loud noises of the crowd at the impulse and invitation of the chief priests and elders. The impulse of the evil crowd and the loud voices of the people swept away by the crowd's psychology shook Pilate's heart.
But when he was seated, his wife sent someone to say, "Have nothing to do with that righteous man." It was the voice of God through his wife. It was a small voice, but it was the voice of truth and the voice of conscience that we must listen to. But Pilate forsook the small voice and listened to the loud voice.
To stand right in front of God, you must be able to listen to a small, but essential, sound, not a loud one.
II. Let's not compromise with reality. (22-24)
Pilate, knowing that Jesus was innocent, saw that there was going to be a riot among the people, so he surrendered Jesus to the people for his own benefit.
He was only interested in trying to lay a political foundation by satisfying the popular sentiments of the colonial crowd as governor, rather than judging right from wrong. His position and political greed prevented him from standing on the side of the truth. Convenience and selfishness have led us to go against the truth and stand on the other side.
As a result, they abandoned the truth and faith and compromised with reality for their own benefit.
III. Let's take responsibility (24-26)
Pilate is about to start a riot, so he takes water from the Jews and washes his hands, saying, "I am innocent of this man's blood; see it to yourselves." That is, I am not responsible for these days.
Under colonial rule, the governor, who has jurisdiction over life and death, leaves everything irresponsibly to the people. He decided not to do anything for his own safety. But as a result, Barabbas was released, and Jesus was whipped and handed over to be crucified.
Pilate lived an irresponsible life for what he had to do to the end.