13 When they said this, Pilate brought Jesus out to them again. Then Pilate sat down on the judgment seat on the platform that is called the Stone Pavement (in Hebrew, Gabbatha). 14 It was now about noon on the day of preparation for the Passover. And Pilate said to the people, “Look, here is your king!” 15 “Away with him,” they yelled. “Away with him! Crucify him!” “What? Crucify your king?” Pilate asked. “We have no king but Caesar,” the leading priests shouted back. 16 Then Pilate turned Jesus over to them to be crucified. John 19:13-16 NLT
When you read the testimonies of the Gospel writers you have to ask yourself; “What did Jesus do to rile up the religious leaders so much that they wanted to kill him?” The general population or the ruling civic government certainly did not harbour such hate — after all, Jesus’ message of love, repentance, and restoration was not hostile or threatening to the average person.
In my humble and simple opinion, the ruling religious order felt they were losing control over their interpretation and application of Jewish law(s). Their authority and relevance had been questioned by Jesus and they felt threatened. For some it was most probably the potential loss of power — others may have been offended by having their philosophy questioned. Unfortunately when I look at their reaction I see myself. When my authority (perceived) at home or work is questioned their is something that rises up in me that I am ashamed of — I lash out at the “threat” with words and emotions that immediately burden my conscience.
What is the root of this response? Pride. No matter how far and fast I try to run from it, it always seems to catch me when I least expect it. The only positive is I recognize it much quicker than I did years ago. Pride feeds off of the pursuit of power, position, and knowledge in and of this world. It is the prize that satisfies the spirit of this world.
Don’t let your position or attained knowledge trap you — initials after your name or titles of authority have no lasting value. Pride will always build a wall between you and the Kingdom of God.
Father thank you for your patience with me — I know I am an idiot that needs your constant reminders and discipline. Open my eyes to see people and circumstances the way you see them. Let my words and actions be pleasing to you. In Jesus name; Amen