In this chapter, we have the trial, crucifixion, and burial of Jesus. During the trial, it seems that Pilate wants to release Jesus because he found nothing that warranted execution. Pilate had Jesus beaten perhaps in hope that the beating would appease the Jews and he could release Jesus. Instead, the Jews claimed that the only king they have is Caesar, which is a reminder of their reject of God as their leader when they demanded a king. Pilate, in fear of being seen to be going against Caesar, sent Jesus to be crucified.
From this crucifixion account, we see a few important things. The first thing that we notice comes from the conversation between Jesus and Pilate in verses 9-11.
“He went back into the headquarters and asked Jesus, “Where are You from? ” But Jesus did not give him an answer. So Pilate said to Him, “You’re not talking to me? Don’t You know that I have the authority to release You and the authority to crucify You? ” “You would have no authority over Me at all,” Jesus answered him, “if it hadn’t been given you from above. This is why the one who handed Me over to you has the greater sin.”
John 19:9-11 HCSB ( https://www.bible.com/72/jhn.19.9-11.hcsb )
Jesus points out that the only reason He is standing before Pilate to be judged is that it was God that gave Pilate the position of power. Also, Jesus is saying that He is there as a result of His own will. If Jesus wanted to leave and not face the cross; then there would be nothing that Pilate or the Jews could do about it. Jesus was there for the purpose of bringing salvation to mankind. This is why we must not hate Pilate or the Jews because this happened according to God’s plan. If the Jews didn’t have Jesus crucified, then we would not have a way of salvation. Nobody forced Jesus to the cross, He went willing on His own accord.
“When Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, “It is finished! ” Then bowing His head, He gave up His spirit.”
John 19:30 HCSB ( https://www.bible.com/72/jhn.19.30.hcsb )
The second important thing that we see here is what Jesus said right before He died. He said, “It is finished!” What is finished? Everything that God had sent Jesus to accomplish. Jesus has paid the debt of our sins. Now through faith in Jesus, we can have eternal life. The purpose of Jesus coming into the world to fulfill the law and provide a way of reconciliation between us and God. Jesus has accomplished everything for us to receive salvation and all we have to do is believe and repent. Thank God for His grace and salvation that comes through faith in Christ.
Why is it important that we know Jesus accomplished everything He was sent to accomplish? The reason is that over the years and even in modern times there are those that come and try to teach that Jesus has either failed in completing God’s mission or that He left some things undone. One such group that comes to mind is The Moonies. The leader of this group teaches that Jesus failed in completing God’s mission, so God sent him to complete Jesus’ mission. Their church teaches that Moon is the Messiah.
This is why it is important that we know that Jesus is the Son of God, that He is the Messiah, and that He completed everything that God the Father sent Him to complete. If we don’t know the word of God then it can be easy to be lead astray by false teachers which are only going to become more numerous the closer we get to the second coming. Study the word of God every day and apply what you learn to every situation in life.
It is Finished! Jesus is the only way of salvation. Believe in Him, repent, and live life for the glory of God. Amen.
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