Jesus answered, “My kingdom is not from this world. If my kingdom were from this world, my followers would be fighting to keep me from being handed over to the Jews. But as it is, my kingdom is not from here.” One more thought on Jesus’ declaration that his kingdom is not of this world....

It’s not just animosity and fear that kept the religious leaders waiting on Pilate’s stoop. It’s probably some of that. After all, Pontius Pilate was Rome’s emissary, the commander of the Roman legion holding Palestine in submission, and therefore the most powerful man in the region....

When morning came, all the chief priests and the elders of the people conferred together against Jesus in order to bring about his death. They bound him, led him away, and handed him over to Pilate the governor. It’s been, to say the least, a very long night. What began with an intimate...

So Pilate gave his verdict that their demand should be granted. He released the man they asked for, the one who had been put in prison for insurrection and murder, and he handed Jesus over as they wished. He has the power of life and death. Pilate, that is. It is his decision, his call, his...

But the chief priests stirred up the crowd to have him release Barabbas for them instead. Pilate spoke to them again, “Then what do you wish me to do with the man you call the King of the Jews?” They shouted back, “Crucify him!” One may well wonder while reading this portion of...