Trials Of Affliction

( Continued from former page of arriving in Gethsemane’s garden.)

As they all approached the garden, the disciples had marked the change that came over their Master. Never before, had they seen him so stricken with sadness. HIS Silence was a warning, also. They were without questioning JESUS for His deepened disclosure of emotions. They were afraid to ask. They never had experienced this intense emotion from Him, within the three and half years of living beside Him. The Saviour’s steps were expressing an exasperated effort to journey forward. As they passed by His usual secluded place of prayer. The disciples longed for His anguish efforts to cease and to gain rest. JESUS groaned in His internal suffering. The disciples caught Him twice as He entered the garden. JESUS told Peter, James and John to stay by Him to pray for Him and themselves. HE went into a secluded spot, so they would not witness His Agony In Pain… “Tarry Ye here,(stay here.) and watch with Me.” HE trusted these three followers. They had witnessed Moses and Elijah with JESUS, on The Mount Of Transfiguration. They had journeyed along Gethsemane times before, with JESUS early hours of prayer.

HE went a little distance from them- not so they could hear or see Him. JESUS fell prostrated upon the ground. HE felt He had been separated already from His Father. the iniquity He was soon to carry, tormented His Soul. Seeing The Separation Of His Father and GOD’s Wrath upon sin and the sinner. The profound intensity was unbearable for Him. Christ foresaw of The Justice and punishment of man’s sin; against His human body and also, against man’s defiance to GOD’s Will and Truth. HE had been the earthly intercessor for us, now He desired an intercessor in His behalf. As Christ felt this divorce from His Father’s unity. HE feared that in His human bodily form, He would not endure the physical sacrifice; which was soon to come. Facng other conflicts; were satan’s revilings and placing more pressures upon JESUS’s Emotion. The controversy was definately being played. JESUS was left with all these inner struggles of tragicness upon humanity. Weighted and carried upon Him. If.. Christ did not take hold upon Himself; these burdens of division, then, satan would of gained total control of the earth and its populations. satan would of gained total authority/ownership over this planet and its inhabitants. Almighty GOD has authority over all, including satan. If, a person is allowing satan’s ways in their living..then, satan has power over their lifes. When, a person acknowledges Christ, through their living..then, Christ has authoritative influence and rights to that person. Its the playground where one chooses to play. In who? we are giving the permission to.. in our life. satan did come to Christ that nite. Disclosing falsehoods and deceptive ideas of losing through death, towards JESUS. Gabriel also, was sent from His Father, to comfort JESUS as He turmoiled over this coming event. The whole human race’s salvation was dependant, on Christ carrying through; as The Sacrificial Lamb which took on the weight of the world.

When we sin; we are calling JESUS “a lier!”

we are spitting in His Face;

we are throwing rocks at Him;

we are mocking & slandering Him;

we are telling Him, “that His Sacrifice did not mean anything to us”…

Each sin..tears into His Flesh–when He was flogged & whipped.

Each sin..pounds the thorns into His Skull…

Each sin..beats His Face and Body…

Each sin..pounds a spike into His Hands and Feet…

Each sin has pierced His Side with a spear…

Every sin has brutally tortured The SON Of GOD… Who accepted this All; In Our Place, which we do deserve, not Him…(Never!)

JESUS laid upon the cold ground in anguish of emotion.. From His Lips, He cries, “O’ My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me.” Yet even now, He adds, “Nevertheless not as I will, but as Thou wilt.” This longing Christ felt to the very depths of His Being. In the supreme agony of His Soul, He came to His three with a desire to hear their prayers and words of comforting. JESUS wished to see His Men, following in steadfast prayer and filled with strength and understanding in spirit. He found them sleeping. Heavied in a slumbering stupor. If they had prayed in continued unity; they would of been readied and encouraging to their Master. They had not heeded His Words of, “Watch and pray!” The temptation of a darkening slumber took hold of these selected to assist in Christ’s readiness. They did not intend to forsake their Lord. Before His secluded prayer, JESUS spoke to the twelve, “All ye shall be offended because of Me, this nigh.” They all had given Him, their strongest committance of assurance that they would go with Him to prison and to death. And Peter, in his most honestly presented statement, “Although all shall be offended, yet not I.” Mark 14:27, 29. The disciples awakened to JESUS’s Voice. They hadly recognized Him. JESUS’s anguish showed heavily upon His Face. They had never seen this exasperation in Him. Addressing Peter, JESUS spoke, “Simon, sleepest thou? couldest not watch an hour? Watch ye and pray, lest ye enter unto temptation, The spirit truly is ready, but, the flesh is weak.” JESUS could foresee their weaknesses, not being able to withstand this trial and to endure His betrayal and death to come upon Him. HE did not reprove them but spoke again, “Watch ye and pray, lest you enter into temptation.” Even in His Agony, JESUS was seeking to excuse their weakness and encourage their faith. “The spirit is truly ready, but, the flesh is weak.”

The Saviour again, became anguished and weakened. HE staggered back to His place of seclusion. His suffering became greater. HIS Soul heavied laden beyond all emotions. HE was seized with overpowering weight of darkened forces surrounding Him. Falling prostrate, He was likened to a bent reed, in an angry storm. “HIS Sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground.” Now it had come the hour of the power of darkness. His Voice was heard on the still evening air, not in tones of triumph, but full of human anquish. The words of The Saviour were borne to the ears of the drowsy disciples. They questioned on going to their Master. JESUS once again, came to them. Asking for them to keep in prayer. They saw His Troubled Pain. They reassured their Lord, over their quilty exclamations. Turning away, JESUS sought His seclusion. The humanity of The SON Of GOD trembled in this trying hour. HE was overcomed with great darkness. HE prayed now, for His Own Agonized Soul. The fate of humanity was held in balance of Christ’s enduing… Will The SON Of GOD drink the bitter cup of humiliation and agony? Will HE; Innocent Of Sin; suffer the consequence of the curse of sin, to save the quilty? Mankind’s enormous weight and due penalty of sin placed upon The Spotless Christ. Three times HE uttered the prayer; “O My Father, if this cup may not pass away from Me, except I drink it, Thy Will be done.” This torment and sacrifice is the crowning event upon humanity’s redemption. The history of the human race is now tested. HE sees the transgression of the law. HE sees the helplessness of man. HE sees the power of sin. The woes and lamentations of a doomed world rise up before him. HE beholds its impending fate. JESUS reassures Himself to His Final Decision; HE will save man, at any cost to Himself. HE accepts HIS Baptism Of Blood. Through His Sacrifice; millions may gain Everlasting LIFE… JESUS had left The Courts Of Heaven, to save even just one human being. Becoming The Propitiation(attoning sacrifice; appeasement; The Mercy Seat) of a race that has willed to sin.

GOD suffered with HIS SON. HE felt all that His SON endured. Heaven was silenced. Holy angels beheld The Saviour’s agony. The unfallen worlds and the heavenly host had observed with intense interest as the conflict drew to its conclusion. The powers of good and of evil watched as Christ’s thrice spoken prayer was to be answered. satan and his army awaited intensely, this great crisis in the work of redemption. The Heavens opened; a bright light shone forth amid the darkness that had surrounded Christ. The Mighty Angel whom stands beside the Throne, came to give power to The Divine human suppliant. To give assurance of His Father’s Love… Gabriel told Christ to look towards the heavens, telling Him of the souls He would save, as a result of His Own Sufferings. He told Him; that The Father is more powerful and greater than satan. That His Death would result in the utter dissolvement and overthrownment of satan. The saints would inherit the kingdom of this world, by The Most High; of The New Earth. Gabriel reassured JESUS that His Sacrifice would eternally save a multitude of humanity.

The storm had not passed, but, Christ became strengthened and a newness had rested upon Him. His Disciples were awakened by the light that surrounded HIm, they saw the splendor of the angel beside their Master. They saw him lift JESUS’s Head upon his bosom, pointing towards the heavens. They heard his voice like the sweetest music. Now, they held no fear for Him. They saw the comforting care the GOD-sent angel was providing.

But, again, they fell into slumber. Looking sorrowfully upon His Men, “Sleep on now, and take your rest; behold the hour is at hand, and The Son of man is betrayed into the hands of sinners.” Even as Christ spoke these words, He heard the footsteps of the approaching mob. HE spoke to the three, “Rise, let us be going; behold, he is at hand that doth(does) betray Me.” JESUS stepped forth to meet the intruders. Standing in front, JESUS asked, “Whom do you seek?” They answered “JESUS Of Nazareth.” JESUS replied,”I Am He.” Gabriel came between JESUS and the aggressors, and they fell to the ground. A light shone upon JESUS. The crowd was fearfully struck. Then, the angel withdrew. JESUS remain. Then, the angered soldiers, priests, and Judas got their footing and surrounded Him. Again, JESUS questioned them, “Whom do ye seek?” Their reply,”JESUS Of Nazareth.” The Saviour said, “I have told you, that I Am He; if therefore you seek Me, let these go their way.” Pointing to dismiss His Disciples from this harsh trial of persecution. HE knew their faith was weak, not to have them brought unto temptation. For them, HE was ready to sacrifice Himself(as for us, included). Judas, the betrayer did as he signaled those arresting. Giving the sign as, “Whomsoever I shall kiss, that same is He: hold Him fast(arrest Him). Matthew 26:48. Coming close to JESUS, Judas takes His Hand, with the words, “Hail, Master,” he kisses Him repeatedly. JESUS asked him, why had he come there? JESUS voice trembled with sorrow towards Judas, “Judas, betrayest thou The Son of man with a kiss?” JESUS did not refuse the betrayer’s kiss. His own disciple which was now controlled by satan’s ruling. Judas’s heart was hardened beyond this heartbroken scene. To have his beloved Teacher arrested as a criminal. The Pure Lamb forsakened by Judas. The mob now grew bold in their defiant disposition. They abruptly bound His Hands with cords. The disciples thought that their Master would resist this arrest. That The Heavenly Forces would allow their escape. Peter in his anger rashly drew his sword and tried to defend his Master, cutting an ear of a high priest’s servant. JESUS broke the Roman soldier’s grasp and placed His Hand upon the servant’s ear, saying, “Suffer ye thus far.” The man’s ear became instantly whole. HE said to Peter, “Put up again thy sword into his place, for all they that take the sword, shall perish with the sword.” “Thinkest thou that I cannot pray to My Father, and He shall presently give Me more than twelve legions of angels?” The official temple priest and elders had joined the policed crowd to arrest JESUS. In their puffed-up egos; of self-given authority to arrest and eliminate Him; which threatened their positions. Turning to them, Christ spoke these sharpened rebukes, in Dignity; “You come out against Me, with swords and staves, as you would against a thief or a robber. Day by day I sat teaching in the temple. You had every opportunity of laying hands upon Me, and you did nothing. The night is better suited to your work. This is your hour, and the power of darkness.”

The disciples were terrified as they saw JESUS permit Himself to be taken and bound. They were offended that He should suffer this humiliation to Himself and them. They could not understand His Conduct. They blamed Him for submitting to the mob. In their indignation and fear, Peter proposed tht they save themselves. Following this suggestion, “they all forsook Him, and fled.” But, Christ had foretold of this desertion, “Behold, the hour cometh, yea, is now come, that ye shall be scattered, every man to his own, and shall leave Me alone; and yet I am not alone, because The Father is with Me.” John 16:32. Matthew 26:36-56; Mark 14:32-50; Luke 22:39-53; John 18:1-12.

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Before Caiaphas Court…

*[Adult Maturity Only (Graphic Pictures & Descriptives)]

JESUS was hurried past the olive groves and through the sleeping city, by the relentless mob. It was past midnight and they had Him bound and closely guarded. But, in eager haste His captors made their way with Him to the palace of Annas, the ex-high priest. Annas was the head of the officiating priestly family, and in deference to his age, he was recognized by the people as a high priest. His counsel was sought and carried out as the voice of GOD. He must first see Jesus being captive to priestly power. Annas also, must be present at the examination of the prisioner, for the fear of the less-experienced Caiaphas might fail of securing the object for which they were planning. Annas’s artifice(skillful contriving & expedient trickery), cunning, and subtlety(art of craftiness) must be used on this occasion; for, at all events, Christ’s condemnation must be secured.

Christ was to be formally tried before the Sanhedrin; but before Annas, HE was subjected to a preliminary trial. Under the Roman ruling, the Sanhedrin could not execute the death sentence. They could only examine a prisoner, and pass judgement, to be ratified by the Roman authorities. It was therefore necessary to bring charges against JESUS that would be regarded as criminal crimes against Rome’s statehood. An accusation must also be found which would condemn Him in the eyes of the Jews. Not a few among the priests and rulers had been convicted by Christ’s Teachings. Only the fear of excommunication prevented them from confessing Him. The priests well remembered the question of Nicodemus, “Doth(does) our law judge any man, before it hear him, and know what he doeth(did); (through justice). John 7:51. This question had for the time broken up the council and thwarted their plans. Joseph of Arimathaea and Nicodemus were not now to be summoned, but there were others who dared to speak of justice. The trial must be so conducted, as to unite the members of the Sanhedrin that were against Christ. There were two charges which the priests desired to maintain. If JESUS could be proved a blasphemer, HE then, could be punished to death, by the Jews. If convicted of sedition(a form of treason), it would then secure His condemnation by the Romans. The second charge Annas tried to establish. He questioned JESUS concerning His Disciples and His Doctrines, hoping his prisoner would say something against Roman authority or His Kingship. Christ read Annas’s intent and inner soul. HE denied any secret bond of union against the Roman ruling. Regarding His Doctrine; “I spake openly to the world.” JESUS shared that He always taught before the Jewish priests in the synagogues and temple courts.

The Saviour contrasted His own manner of work with the methods of His accusers. For months they had hunted Him, striving to entrap Him, and bring Him, before a secret tribunal(trial), where they might gain a foothold, by their own perjury. Now, they were carrying out their deceptive plan. The midnight seizure by mob, the mockery and abuse, before He was condemned, or even accused, was their way. Their own actions defiled their rulings, which condemned themselves. Turning upon the questioner, JESUS said, “Why ask thou Me?” Had not the priests sent spies, to record His Movements, and to repeat every Word spoken. “Ask them which heard Me, what I have said and done?” Annas was now silenced by the decision of His Answer. Fearing that Christ would say something, regarding his own course of action, which he prefered to be kept secret; Annas spoke not a word. One of his officers, which was wrathed against Christ’s Truth to Annas, struck JESUS upon the face saying, “Answerest Thou this high priest so?” Christ calmly replied, “If I have spoken evil, bear witness of the evil; but, if well, why smitest(hit) Me?” JESUS spoke no words of retaliation. HIS response, shared a genuine concern, for His captures. Keenly, under abuse and insult. At the hands of the beings, which He created, and for whom His Sacrifice was alloted. JESUS was making an infinite sacrifice, HE received every indignity. And He suffered in proportion to the perfection of His Holiness, and His hatred of sin. His trial by men, who acted as fiends, was to Him a perpetual sacrifice. To be surrounded by human beings under the influence of satan was revolting to Him. And He knew that in a moment, by the flashing forth of His Divine Power, He could lay His cruel tormentors in the dust. This made the trial the harder to bear. The Jews were looking for an outward show of His Messiahship. They expected by a flash of His Control, to change the thoughts of men, to His Supremacy. To outwardly profess His Divinity. Christ had controlled His emotion to overule their wrongdoings. HE had come to become The Sacrificial Lamb; so He defied not against their unjustice.

The angels of heaven witnessed every movement against their Commander. They so longed to deliver Him. Under GOD, the angels are all-powerful. In one night GOD sent angels that slew one hundred and eighty-five thousand Assyrian men. JESUS bore the cruelty of these unjust men. HIS Promise to The Father, in the earth’s foundation. HIS Love; becoming The Sin-Bearer; to endure such abuse. It was His Part; His Mission to bear in His Humanity; the painful afflictions of mankind. Christ spoke nothing to His Angels, not permitting them to respond. HE gave His accusers no excuse to their claims. They knew they had to have a pretense of justice, given in this hidden trial. They hastened their decision.

The unjust avengers were afraid of the Jews finding out about this courtside trial. There were many following, This Profound Teacher. With the Passover to begin. They were not prepared for a weeks delay, of executing the order. The followers may also, of attempted a rescue. In securing the condemnation of JESUS; was in the rilarying of the bystanders gathered at the public trial. A mob reaction fueled by outbursts of verbal executions as a criminal and proclaiming His verdict upon JESUS. They were sore afraid of the witnesses in Christ’s behalf: those miraculously healed, His remaining eleven disciples, His mother and siblings, neighbors, and all those whose hearts had been touched by The Saviour’s Teachings. This all would excite the popular indignation against the Sanhedrin. Their proceedings then would be totaly dissolved, and JESUS would be set free. HE would receive a new homage from the multitudes. Then the priests and rulers crimes would be held against them from the Jewish nation and also, against Rome’s ruling. So before their purpose was perceived, they furthered their quickness to JESUS, being delivered to the Romans. An accusation was to first be found. They had gained nothing as yet. Annas ordered JESUS to be taken to Caiaphas(a high priest of the Sadducees). These people mainly were desperate enemies of JESUS. Caiaphas was severe, heartless, and unscrupulous(unprincipled) as was Annas. He would leave no means untried to destroy JESUS. It was now early morning. The sun had not set. With torches and lanterns the armed band proceeded with JESUS to the priest’s palace. Here, while the members of the Sanhedrin were coming together, Annas and Caiaphas again questioning JESUS, but with no avail. When the council had assembled in the judgement hall, Caiaphas took his seat as presiding official. On either sides were the judges, and those interested in the trial’s duration. The Roman soldiers were stationed on the platform below the throne. At the foot of the throne stood JESUS. Upon Him, the whole assembly had their total concentration. The excitement was very intensely emotional. Christ had a calmness in His Presence. A Holy Influence surrounded him.

Caiaphas regarded JESUS as his rival. With the eagerness of the people ready to hear JESUS speak was an upset to Caiaphas. Jealousy reached his heart. But, as he beheld JESUS, in His noble and dignified stature, Caiaphas held an admiration towards Him. A conviction took over him that this Man was akin to GOD. Immediately these thoughts were dismissed by a hasty loud voice; demanding Christ to perform a miracle. But, The Saviour did not acknowledge these haunty commands. The people within the courts compared the excitement and malignant deportment of Annas and Caiaphas with the calm, majestic bearance of JESUS. Even the minds of those hardened, questioned, Is this man of Godlike presence to be condemned as a criminal?

These enemies of JESUS were in great perplexity. They were not resolved in their method of His Condemnation. The members were divided between the Pharisees and the Sadducees, being bitter animosity between them. Certain disputes were not brought forward, due to arguement between them both. With a few words JESUS could have excited their prejudices, and altered their wrath away from HIM, and unto themselves. The Romans were already disgusted with the pretentions of the Pharisees. This was a matter of crime, they had to delicately settle between their positions. Christ had already pointed them as murderers and hypocrites, but in this testimony, they wished to have remained quieted. The Teacher had outwardly protested their traditions. They could not present the miracles performed. Or in JESUS having healed on the Sabbath, as a Sabbathbreaker. This would only point to His Authority as GOD sent.

Early in Christ’s Ministry, He said, “Destroy the temple, and in three days I will raise it up.” In the figurative language of prophecy, He had thus foretold of His own death and resurrection. “He spake of the temple of His Body.” John 2:19, 21. These words were accepted literally, as the temple in Jerusalem. By misstating these words they found a vice to place upon JESUS. The Romans had engaged in rebuilding and embellishing the temple, taking pride in their displays.

JESUS had listened to their conflicting testimonies. No word did He utter in self-defense. HE stayed calm. HE held His Peace. Caiaphas became desperate, Christ must be forced to condemn Himself. “Answer Thou nothing?” he exclaimed; “what is it which these witness against Thee?” HE did not answer. HE was brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so He openeth not His Mouth. Isaiah 53:7. At last, Caiaphas raised his right hand towards heaven, addressing JESUS as a solemn oath: “I adjure Thee by The Living GOD, that Thou tell us whether Thou be The Christ, The SON Of GOD.” To this appeal Christ could not remain silent. There was a time to be silent and a time to speak. HE had not spoken at all, until directly questioned. HE knew that this acknowledge was a definate death sentence, upon Him. JESUS had to declare His Character and Mission; in reference To Almighty GOD. JESUS had told His Disciples before, that “Whosoever therefore shall confess Me before men, him, I will I confess also, before My Father, which is in heaven.” Matthew 10:32. Now, by His own example, He repeated this lesson.

Every ear was attentive. “Thou hadst said.” A heavenly light beamed upon Christ’s countenance as He added, “Nevertheless I say unto you, Hereafter shall see The Son of man sitting on The Right Hand Of Power, and coming in the clouds of heaven.” For these words touched deep in the guise of humanity.JESUS being seated at The Right Hand Of GOD; stating His True Divinity and Authorship; as Creator; LORD; Redeemer and Judge. HE would be The Judge of all the earth. From His Decision, there would be no appeal. Every secret deed would be reflected upon by GOD’s Countenance, and Judgement be passed upon every man according to his deeds(godly or evil). Caiaphas became very nervous and setback. In front of Christ’s statement was the final judgement decreed. Flashes of his former wickedness and things undone were as clear as day. They passed in the true light that touched his mind. He could not run or hide. It will be the same, when Christ is ascending.. there will be multitudes trying to hide from His Pure Light Of Perfection; exposing their ungodly sins… Conviction mingled with passion seeing The Truth As Messiah. He was furious too. By renting his robe; Caiaphas also pronounced judgement against himself. He disqualified himself by The Law of GOD. By Jewish law; a high priest was not to rend(tear) his garments, by Levitical law, this was prohibited under a sentence of death. Caiaphas just announced death upon himself. Under no circumstance was a priest to rend his clorthing. It was a custom among the Jews at a friends death. But, a priests was never to do so. Everything worn by a priests was to be whole and without blemish. By the beautiful sacred garments were the representation of the antitype; JESUS Christ. Christ gave this command to Moses. Lev. 10:6. The earthly representation of the priests and their garments worn were to be sacred and holy; in reflection of Heaven’s Sancuary. GOD now did not accept Caiaphas as an officiating priest. In this condeming act; designed as an accusation against Christ, he was reviling The One of whom GOD had said, “MY Name is in Him.” Ex 23:21. Caiaphas himself was committing blasphemy. Standing under the condemnation of GOD, he pronounced Christ as a blasphemer.

The Sanhedrin pronounced JESUS worthy of death. They could not legally sentence JESUS, at night. The Saviour was treated with the utmost contempt, as a condemned criminal by the lowest and most vilest of humankind. The palace of the court was surrounded by an opened guardroom. Christ was taken here. Not under the viewers’ protection, HE endured their rebutles, their mockeries, with satanic hatred JESUS was hit and struck harshly. In Christ; His attributes shone… His meekness, His innocence, His majestic patience, filled the court’s deciding members and the guards and soldiers, with anger filled with the madness of satan. Hating The SON Of GOD; The Redeemer of humanity. The Victory was progressing, as JESUS being The Sacrificial Lamb. satan was challenged to his ownership of mankind. his hatred was magnified through those willing to partake in his allowance of demon-filled hatred. HIS Mercy and Justice were trampled upon. Never had a criminal been treated in such an inhumane manner, as was The SON Of GOD. But, the most mournful injustice that pained JESUS’s Heart, was the denial of one of His Closest Disciples. Peter had denied JESUS thrice(3x), in the outer courtyard awaiting JESUS’s verdict. Peter was asked by a servant woman and two others, if.. he was a disciple/friend of JESUS. Peter denied all three times.

After deserting their Master, in the garden, two of His Disciples had ventured to follow the mob and JESUS. Peter and John followed, at a distance. They were invited, into the court session, as His Followers, to bring a verdict against Him; stating Him; as The SON Of GOD. John went in. Peter was sore afraid. He stayed among others, in the outer court. That is, where he was approached three times, and asked if he knew of JESUS. Peter allowed to be on enemy ground. And his air of indifference and trying to blend into the crowd; he himself became an element of reproach. Peter’s demeaner somewhat changed. His language became defiled with cursing, he became uneasy and angered, at those questioning him. After the second crow of a rooster, Peter remembered His Master’s Words. “Before the cock crows twice, thou shalt(will) deny Me thrice(3x)” Mark 14:30. While the degrading oaths were fresh upon Peter’s lips, and the crowing, was still being heard. The Saviour turned away from the judges and looked directly at His Beloved Follower. Peter could see the genuine countenance upon His Master’s Face. He saw no anger. The Saviour’s Compassion and Forgiveness; His former words spoken to Peter, all these feelings of guilt and shame pierced his heart. Peter rejected JESUS’s statement to him, previously about the denial. Peter had just declared that he knew not JESUS, three times, not just once. Now, he realized with bitter grief, how well His LORD knew him. How JESUS had read his heart, how accurately, even with Peter’s falseness, not consciously known to himself. The Saviour’s tender mercy; His Kindness and Long-suffering; His Gentleness and Patience towards His Erring Disciples.. all of these qualities hit Peter’s awareness of his own ungraditude, his falsehood, his perjury. Remembering JESUS’s Words, “Simon, behold, satan hath(has) desired to have you, that he may sift you, as wheat(bring him through countless trials and temptations): but, I have prayed for thee(you), that thy(your) faith fail(s) not.” Once more Peter looked towards his Master, and saw a sacrilegious(Jewish elder’s) hand raised to smite(hit) Him in the face. Unable to endure this scene, he rushed, heartbroken from the courtyard. Peter ran and tried to outrun his guiltfilled sorrow. He found himself back in Gethsemane. Remembering The Saviour’s Words to watch and pray, to His Three, several times that night. Seeing the bitter remorse JESUS had carried in weeping agony, praying all alone. Again, the scene in the judgement hall. It was torture to his bleeding heart, to know that he had placed the heaviest burden, to The Saviour’s humiliation and grief. On the very place where JESUS had poured out His Soul in agony to His Father, Peter fell upon his face, and wished his own death…

As soon as it was day, the Sanhedrin again assembled, and again JESUS was brought into the council room. HE had declared Himself, as The SON Of GOD, after they had construed(placed a verdict upon) His Words into a charge against Him. But, they planned on a second trial and a condeming statement from JESUS. It was now, the appropriate hour for a trial, having reached daylight. The former hearing was a hidden gathering, in secret, it was against the law to hold a trial at night. Again, they asked JESUS, “Art Thou then The SON of GOD?” they were eager to hear Him cast His own verdict, upon Himself. Answering them, He said, “Ye(you) say that I am.” They cried out against Him, “What need we any further witness? for we ourselves have heard of His own mouth.” And so by the third condemnation of the Jewish authorities, JESUS was to die. All that was necessary, they thought, was for the Romans to radify this condemnation, and deliver Him into their hands. Then came the third scene of abuse and mockery, worse then the night before.. In the very presence of the priests and rulers, this was allowed. Every feeling of a form of sympathy had left them. With their weakness and wrongdoings of trial and priesthood; they intended to persecute Him further, through their hatred of His Righteousness. When the verdict was placed upon JESUS, the group became frenzied. The roar of their voices sounded more as wild animals. satan was amidst His advengers. The crowd made a rush towards Him, crying, “He is guilty, put Him to death!” Had it not been for the Roman soldiers, JESUS would not had been nailed to the cross. The crowd would have beaten Him, before. The soldiers restrained the violence of this radical mob. Priests and rulers forgot any dignity of their office, and abused The SON Of GOD with foul epithets(name calling). They taunted(verbally attacking/demeaning) Him with His Parentage. They declared that His presumption in proclaiming himself as Messiah, made Him deserving of the most ignominious(humiliating/despicable) death. The most dissolute(unmorally/no-restraint) men engaged in infamous abuse of The Christ. An old garment was thrown over His Head, and the abusers struck him in the face, saying, “Prophesy unto us, Thou Christ, Who is he that smote Thee?” When the garment was removed one old woman spat in His Face. The angels of GOD recorded faithfully, every insulting look, word, action.. against their beloved Commander. One day these base(low/vile) men who scorned(came against) and spat upon His Gentle Loving Face; will look upon Christ and see The Glory; shining brighter than the sun… Matthew 26:57-75, 27:1; Mark 14:53-72, 15:1; Luke 22:54-71; John 18:13-27.

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Pilate’s Judgement Hall…

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In the judgement hall of Pilate, the Roman governor, Christ stands bound as a prisioner. About Him are the guard of soldiers, and the hall is quickly filling with spectators. Just outside the entrance are the judges of the Sanhedrin, priests, rulers, elders, and the gathering mob. After condemning JESUS, the council of the Sanhedrin had come to Pilate to have the sentence confirmed and executed. But these Jewish officials would not enter the Roman judgement hall. According to the ceremonial law they would be defiled thereby, and thus they prevented themselves. In their blindness they did not see that murderous hatred had defiled their own hearts. They did not see that Christ was The True Passover Lamb. With them rejecting Him, they lost the significance of the feast. When The Saviour had been brought into the judgement hall, Pilate looked upon Him, with no friendly eyes. The Roman governor had been called from his bedchamber in haste, and determined to deal with this case, very speedily. He was prepared to deal with this prisioner with magisterial(authoriative ruling) severity. Assuming his severest expression, he turned to see what kind of man he had to examine, that he had to be gotten out of his bed, at such an early hour. The dawn was just beginning. Pilate knew that it must be someone whom the Jewish authorities were anxious to have tried and punished with haste. Pilate looked at the men who had charged JESUS, and then he searchingly gazed the prisioner. He had to deal with all kinds odf criminals; but never before had a man bearing marks of such goodness and nobility had been brought before him. On His Face he saw no sign of guilt, no expression of fear, no boldness or defiance. Pilate saw a man of calm and dignified bearance, whose countenance bore not the marks of a criminal, but the signature of heaven.

Christ’s appearance made a favorable impression upon Pilate. His better nature was roused. He had heard of JESUS and His Works. His wife had told him something of the wonderful deeds performed by the Galilean Prophet., who cured the sick and raised the dead. Now, this revived, as a dream in Pilate’s mind. He recalled rumors which he had heard from several sources. He resolved to demand from the Jews, their charges against their prisioner. “Who is this man? and why have you brought Him?””What accusation do you have against Him?” The Jews were then disconcerted(upset/disturbed). Knowing that they could not substantiate(confirm in proof) their charges against Christ, they did not desire a public examination(trial). They answered that He was a deceiver called JESUS of Nazareth.

Again, Pilate asked, “What accusation do you bring, against this Man?” The priests did not answer this question. In disgust they said, “If He was not a malefactor(criminal), we would not have brought Him to you.””When those composing of the Sanhedrin, the first men of the Jewish nation, bring to you a man, they deem worthy of death, is there need to ask for an accusation against Him?” They hoped to impress Pilate with a sense of importance, and thus lead him to accede(officially agree) to their request without going through many preliminaries(hearings of facts). Their deceptive crime against JESUS, was to be eluded. They pushed to have their sentence ratified; they feared those witnesses that had seen His Miracles and the Jewish officials tactics; would be trecherous to themselves. The priests thought that with the weak and vacillating Pilate they could carry through their plans without any trouble. Before this he had signed the death warrent hastily. In his estimation the life of a prisioner was of little account. Quilty or innocent, a prisioner was not to be given a fair trial. The priests desired Pilate’s death sentence to be issued upon JESUS. This they besought as a favor on the occasion of their great national festival(Passover). But, there was something that held Pilate back, JESUS drew his heart towards Him. He dared not agree so readily. He read the purposes of the priests. He remembered how, not long before, JESUS had raised Lazarus, a man that had been dead for four days. Pilate was determined to know, before signing a death warrent against JESUS. The charges condemning Him and to see the truth of these charges. “If your judgement is sufficient, why do you bring the prisioner to me?” “Take Him, and judge Him, according to your law.” The leaders pressed in quickened response, stating that they had already passed sentence upon Him, but they needed Pilate’s sentence given to render their condemnation valied. Pilate asked, “What then, is your sentence?” They responded to a death sentence, “But, it is not lawful for us to put any man to death.” They then asked Pilate to take their word as to Christ’s guilt, and enforce their sentence. They would take the responsibility of the result, they shared. Pilate was not a just or a conscientious judge; but weak though he was in moral power, he refused to grant this request. He would not condemn JESUS until a charge had been brought against Him. The priests were in a dilemma. They saw that they must cloak their hypocrisy under the thickest concealment. They must not allow it to appear that Christ had been arrested on religious grounds. Were this put forward as a reason, their proceedings would have no weight with Pilate. They must make it appear that JESUS was working against the common law(against Rome’s rulings). Then, JESUS could be tried as a political offender. There was an increasing aggression against the Roman authority over the Jewish nation. With numerous revolts, the Romans dealt very harshly against these radicals and hastened to repress these political uprisings. Only a few days before this, the Pharisees had tried to entrap JESUS with the question, “Is it lawful for us to give tribute to Caesar?” But, Christ had unveiled their hypocrisy(false simulation of goodness). The Romans who were present had seen the utter failure of the plotters, and their discomfiture(overthrown, frustration) at His Answer, “Render therefore unto Caesar the things which be Caesar’s. Luke 20:22-25. The priests brought false witnesses, accusing JESUS of forbidding to give tribute to Caesar, that He also, was perverting the nation, as Christ a King. They were willing to commit perjury to secure their accusation of JESUS. Pilate saw through their purpose. He did not believe that JESUS plotted against the government. HIS meek and humble appearance was altogether out of harmony with their charges. Pilate was convinced that a deep plotting was against HIM, by these Jewish leaders. Turning to JESUS he asked, “Art Thou the King of the Jews?” The Saviour answered, “Thou sayest it.” And as Christ spoke His Countenance lite up. When they heard His Answer, Calaphas and those with Him, called Pilate to witness that JESUS had just confirmed Himself as King, as stated against Him. They became voisterous and angry, charging JESUS to be put to death. The cries were also, amplified by the gathered mob, it became deafening. Pilate became confused. Seeing that Christ, made no answer to His accusers, he asked JESUS, “Answerest Thou nothing?”(Do You not have anything to say? in Your defense?) But, JESUS spoke nothing. JESUS showed no resentment of anger, no judgement against His accusers. HIS countenance displayed a conscious innocence. HE stood at ease amongst the raging crowd. Pilate was astonished at JESUS stature and non-threatened appearance. Pilate could see and hear, the loud hatred of the priest and multitude. In Christ’s defense,; hoping to gain the truth and dismiss the weight, of those boisterous haters. Pilate took JESUS aside with him, and ask again, “Art Thou the King of the Jews?”

JESUS did not answer Pilate. The Holy Spirit was striving with Pilate’s heart. Christ gave Pilate the opportunity to acknowledge this Sacred Truth. Christ spoke, “Do you ask this for your own knowledge? or did others tell you of this?” Was it influenced, being with the stirring of the accusations from the Jewish priests. The opportunity for Pilate’s self-realization of his own faultering, in believing Christ. Pilate became defensive and sharply spoke, “Am I a Jew?” Pilate did not wish to denounce his position, among the Jewish people and his kingship to Caesar and to Rome. Uneasily Pilate stated, that HE had been delivered to his court, and again he asked “What hast Thou done?” JESUS spoke, “MY Kingdom is not of this world.” Pilate again asked, “Art Thou a King then?” JESUS said, “Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause, I came into this world, that I should bear witness unto The Truth. Everyone, that is of the truth, hear My Voice.” Christ affirmed, that His Word was in itself The Key which would unlock the mystery, to those who were prepared in heart to receive this/Him. Pilate struggled with JESUS’s words and the whole matter of his perception received.. He had a desire to know this truth, but, his mind was confused. He eagerly grasped The Saviour’s Words. His heart was stirred with obtaining this wonderful truth. “What is truth?” The screaming priests and crowd, distracted Pilate again. He declared emphatically, “I find in Him, no fault at all.” The priests and crowd went frantic. The priests plans were being rejected. The false accusations were being dismissed. In their angered defense, they loudly denounced Pilate and his rulership. They threatened him with the censure of the Roman government. They accused him of refusing to condemn JESUS, who, they affirmed, had set Himself up against JESUS. Pilate, at this time had no thought of condemning JESUS. He knew that the Jews had accused Him through hatred and prejudice. He knew what his duty was. Justice demanded that Christ should be immediately released. But..Pilate dreaded the effect of the revolt of the angered Jewish multitude. So Pilate was submitting to their protest and lies. Placing their threat to come before Christ’s Innocence… Pilate knew Christ was from Galilee, so he decided to send Him to Herod for sentencing. Trying to shift responsibilty of himself to Herod. There had been an unsettled disagreement between the two leaders. Christ became this bridge, of a settlement, between these two. Pilate had JESUS hurried to Herod’s court.

Herod was excited to see this Galilean who performed miracles. He had heard much about Him. The stories were endless throughout the country. Herod had delivered John the baptist death sentence. Now, he had John’s cousin standing, before him. Herod wished for JESUS to show him a miracle in his court, among his courtsmen. The Jewish leader’s mind was upon JESUS’s performance, not mainly,of His trial and sentencing. Herod feared JESUS , as to a reprocussion of having slain His Cousin. Thinking of the releasing of JESUS, would bring profitable standing among the Jewish nation. That JESUS would assist his future in kingship ruling. When JESUS came before Herod, the ruler demanded that the fetters of chains be removed, charging His enemies of their injust roughness. Herod saw Christ’s serene countenance, admidst the malice and envy He had encountered. The Jewish priest and elders accompanied JESUS as He was brought to Herod. They were yelling bouts of angered statements directed towards Him. Herod paid no regard to their accusations and silenced them. Herod saw the reflective wisdom and purity, upon JESUS, while he questioned Him. The Saviour maintained a profound silence. Herod then, had numerous afflicted persons, needing healing, enter into his court. Christ was ordered to prove Himself, by healing them. JESUS took upon Himself; the statehood of a humble human, that was to endure in pain and humiliation, as we would. Herod promised that if Christ would perform a miracle in his presence, He would be released. Christ’s accusers had seen the mighty works of His Power before. They had heard of His Command of the dead to rise again. Fear took hold of them. If a miracle would be done, they would lose their grip upon Him. They might even face a death sentence for their false acclamations. Raising their voices they declared, JESUS as a traitor, a blashphemer. Accusing that His Miracles were through the power given by Beelzebub, the prince of devils. Herod’s hall became a scene of confusion. Herod’s conscience was now, less heavied with John’s execution. After John’s death, Herod had felt remorse and the guilt weighed upon him. But, with his licentious(wicked, lustful,) living, he soon became morally degraded. His heart was hardened and his mind was influenced and distracted by his sinning. The healthy mindness of one, undone by the sins they partake of, affecting all rational thought. Repeadily threatening JESUS as to proof Himself, towards His own freedom. JESUS stood as if not hearing a word. Herod became irritated by JESUS’s unresponsiveness. Herod took it as an insult against his authoriative position. To the vain and pompous Herod, an open rebuke from JESUS would of been less threatening, then, this silence of indifference; he perceived.

The Mission Of Christ was not to submit to gratify curiousity. JESUS came to heal the brokenhearted. If, JESUS would of spoken a word to the sin-strickened souls, those unjust men would of trampled this Truth, under their unholy feet/ways. Christ might have spoken words to Herod to pierce his hardened heart. To bring horror of his deathly deeds, upon his conscious. Christ’s Silence was the severest rebuke that He could give. Herod had received the truth spoken by the former prophets. The Greatest Prophet was now, before his court. Not a word did JESUS have to share with him. All the loving qualities of JESUS’s Heart had no room for Herod’s hauntiness, who felt no need of a Saviour. Herod’s face grew dark of non-passion. Turning to the multitude he denounced JESUS as innocent, and angrily claimed Him, as an impostor. He turned to JESUS, stating that He was giving no evidence for Himself, that He would be handed over to the people. That death is His merit; “If, You are The SON Of GOD, save Yourself by working a miracle.” The crowd, including Herod rushed at JESUS, pushing and pulling upon Him. They were all attacking Him. The Roman soldiers restrained the crowd. Herod mocked JESUS and placed a robe upon Him. JESUS stayed refrained from any manner of detestment.

Christ’s persecuters were throwing their own defiant character flaws at Him. In their worthlessness, they were unjust, and were used as satan’s vessels, to obtain Christ’s torture and death. Some soldiers were aware of The Glory Christ’s future would bestow. These men slid back from their attacks, against Him. They shuttered in their response, against Him. Herod became convicted. The last rays of merciful light were shinning upon his sin-hardened heart. He realized that JESUS was no common man; for His Divinity had flashed through humanity. When Christ was surrounded by mockers, adulterers, and murderers, Herod felt that he was beholding GOD, before His Throne. Herod dared not ratify(validate, to confirm) the condemnation of Christ. He wished to relieve himself of this terrible responsibility, and he sent JESUS back to the Roman judgement hall, again, to Pilate.

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Pilate was displeased on JESUS’s return to him. He asked, the Jewish priests, “What would you have me do?” He reminded them that he had already examined JESUS, and found no fault in Him; Pilate also, told them that their complaints, brought no charge against Him. He had sent JESUS to Herod, the tetrach of Galilee, and one of the Jewish nation, finding not a death sentence towards Him. “I will therefore chastise Him, and release Him.” Here Pilate showed his weakness. He had already declared JESUS’s innocence, but was sentencing Him to scourging(being bound to a post and whipped), pacifying his accusers. Pilate was sacrificing justice to compromise and appease(satisfy) the mob. Pilate was excusing his indirect judgement against JESUS. Which brought about a judgement against himself. The crowd used this indirect method to their advantage pursuing a frenzied shouting to have JESUS as victim. Pilate’s wife called her husband to her side. She had been given JESUS’s Purpose As Saviour, by an angel, in a dream. She told him, He must be released. But, the crowd and priests became more aggressive in their own sentencing of Him. satan was working amongst the multitude acquiring his hatred within their hearts and angered shouts directed towards Pilate. The crowd presumed upon his indecision, and clamored the more for the life of JESUS. If, Pilate would have stood firm, from his first verdict given, against the priestly leaders’s acquisations, then the death of JESUS, would not of been held against him. Pilate had taken steps against his own conscious, by excusing himself from judging with equity, he found himself quite powerless, in the directed sentencing of the Jewish religious leaders and the crowds. His wavering and indecision proved his own ruin.

Even now, Pilate was not left to act blindly. A message from God through Pilate’s wife, warned him of the deed, he was about to commit. Pilate was forced to action, under his own confusion, being furthered by the violent mob. Pilate was hoping to secure Christ’s release, through their customed Passover feast, to unjail one whom the Jewish people favored. This was a pagan custom, brought about to the Jewish people’s satisfaction. At this time there was a criminal of murderous deceit; Barabbas. He had lead some followers to believe he was sent by GOD. Stating he himself, as the Messiah, to establish a new order, among the Jewish nation. Barabbas was lead by satan. He lived by robbery. He used violent dissorder to excite sedition(resistance against lawful authority) against the Roman government. In falsehood exserting himself as a religious follower. His deception had increased his followers emotional charge against JESUS.

Pilate thought that by giving them this deciding factor, between an innocent JESUS, to a hardened criminal.; that The Saviour would be released. So, turning to the crowd, Pilate spoke with great earnestness, “Whom will ye that I release unto you? Barabbas, or JESUS, which is called Christ?” Like a roaring wave of unloosed excitement, the mob frenzied, “Release Barabbas!” Louder and louder they shouted, “Barabbas! Barabbas!” Thinking the multitude had misunderstood his question. Pilate asked again.”Will ye that I release unto you The King of the Jews?” But, they cried out again, “Away with this man, and release unto us Barabbas!” Pilate questioned, “What shall I do then with JESUS which is called Christ?” Again the surging multitude roared like demons. satan and his fallen angels were among the crowd, shouting, “Let Him be crucified!” Pilate shrank from deliverance of an innocent man to this most ignominious(most humiliating, degrading) and cruelest death, that could be inflicted. After the roar of the crowd lessened, Pilate asked, “Why, what evil has this man done?” The crowd had controlled the condemnation of JESUS. There was not the seeking of justice of His Innocence; but the death of Him. Still Pilate endeavored(tried) to save Him, saying a third time, “Why, what evil has He done? I have found no cause of death in Him: I will therefore chastise Him, and let Him go.” But, the very mention of His release, brought the mob to an uncontrolled frenzy. “Crucify Him, crucify Him!” JESUS was taken, faint and wearied and covered with wounds, and scourged in the sight of the multitude. The soldiers led JESUS away into Praetorium Hall, called together the whole band of soldiers. They clothed Him with purple(symbol of royalty, kingship), and put a crown of thorns upon His Head. Saluting Him, in mockery; calling Him The King of the Jews. Spitting upon Him and bowing in falsehood. They had placed a wooded reed, in Christ’s hand. They took it and hit the thorns deep into His Skull. HIS temples were pierced, with blood trinkling down upon His Face and Beard. A maddened throng of the cruelest men, surrounded The Saviour. Mocking and jeering with coarse oaths of blasphemy were thrown at Him. HIS lowly birth and humble life are commented upon by this unfeeling mob. HIS claim to be The SON Of GOD is ridiculed, and the vulgar jest and the insulting sneer are passed from lip to lip. satan led these soldiers in the abuse of JESUS. It was his(satan’s) purpose to provoke JESUS to the point of retaliation, or to push Him beyond all boundaries, to establish a Miracle, for freedom. Thus, to break up this plan of Salvation. One stain upon His human life, one failure of His given humanity to endure this torment, as the Lamb Of GOD, would of been worthless as The Sacrificial Offering for us all… The redeption for mankind would of cease, if Christ would of faltered or given in to these attacks.

The victory of Christ’s submission to these horrendous beatings, were beyond any person’s allowance. Christ endured these painful trials for our freedom, through Him. We have freedom now, here on earth, also, eternal freedom, for those who accept JESUS’s Gift Of Salvation. JESUS’s meekness and patience exalted Him, above humanity. It proved His Kinship to GOD. His abasement was the pledge of His Exaltation. The blood drops of agony that His wounded temples flowed down His Face, was The Pledge of His Annoiting with “The Oil Of Gladness” (Hebrews 1:9) as our Great High Priest. There was no words against His afflictors. HE was sustained by a godlike fortitude, and departed in no expression or action from His Father’s Will.

When Pilate gave JESUS up to be scourged and mocked, he thought it would bring pity upon the viewing mob. He hoped that it would be accepted as a sufficient punishment. The Jews were against JESUS’s release. They decided to press their judgement, to gain their deceptive conclusion, of JESUS’s death warrant.

Pilate called for Barabbas. He presented the two prisoners side by side, pointing to The Saviour, he said, “Behold the Man!” “I bring Him forth to you, that you may know that I find no fault in Him.” There stood The SON Of GOD, wearing the robe of mockery and the crown of thorns. Stripped to the waist, His Back showed the long, cruel stripes from the scourging, the blood flowing freely. His Face was stained with blood, and bore the marks of exhaustion and pain. But, it appeared beautifully calm in a radiant glow of Divinity. Every feature was shown a gentleness and tenderness towards His advengers. This expressed His love and compassion, He held for humanity. Through His longsuffering; JESUS was fulfilling His Purpose. In a striking contrast stood Barabbas. His face expressed his roughened living and his hardened heart. Some of the spectators were weeping, beholding sympathy towards JESUS. Even, the priests and members of the Jewish religious order, witnessed Christ’s Dignity. The mob quieted for a few minutes, viewing His demeanor. The Roman soldiers surrounding Christ. were not all hardened against Him. They could see Christ’s earnestness and innocence. They would cast a look of contempt towards Barabbas. Barabbas countenance plainly spoke of his wickedness. They also, had a decision of their further actions. To accept or dismiss Christ as their Saviour, was of their own destiny to make.

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Pilate did not understand the fanatical hatred of the Jewish priests towards Him. Who, as The Light of the world, had made known their dark character. They had moved the mob to a maddening fury, and again the priests, elders and people within the multitude raised their voices, “Crucify Him, crucify Him!” In his response to these avenging people, he gave into their frenzy. Pilate cried out despairingly, “Take Him, and crucify Him: for I find no fault in Him.” The Roman governor, though familiar with cruel sentencing, was moved with sympathy for this suffering prisoner. The priests declared to lessen their guilty conscious amongst the crowd, “We have a law, and by our law He ought to die, because He made Himself; The SON Of GOD.” Pilate was startled. He had no idea of Christ’s Mission. He had an indistinct faith in GOD. Pilate questioned JESUS, again, “Whence(where) art Thou?” But, JESUS did not answer him. “Speakest Thou not unto me?” knowest Thou not that I have the power to crucify and to release Thee?” JESUS answered, “Thou couldest have no power at all against Me, except it be given to you, by above, therefore he that delivered Me unto you, has the greater sin.” This act of excusing Pilate’s indecision and judgement, was JESUS’s Love for humanity. The Saviour; yet Judge of the earth is sympathetic. JESUS desires for us to reach out to Him.. no matter, where we are or have been. HIS Sacrifice is valid. We must repent and commit our life to Him. It is easier, than, it sounds.. Most Definately! JESUS remark, was mainly directed towards Caiaphas, who, as high priest, represented the Jewish nation. The Jewish clergy knew of the prophesies that testified of Christ. The given teachings and special guidance GOD had given the Jewish people throughout their years of oppression and idolatry. Godly men and women had been pillars amongst their teachers. They had been given The Sacred Commandments and The Book Of Moses, The Arc, Solomon’s Temple and great wisdom passed down, Historical marked events and battles throughout Israel’s nation. Now, The HOLY ONE stood before them; they protested against Him, in satanic hatred, towards His torture to physical death.

The greatest guilt and heaviest responsibility belonged to those, who had sacred positions. These men were given sacred trusts, in their duty to Israel. They betrayed their religious teachings and all those who came in contact with them. Pilate, Herod, and the Roman soldiers were comparatively ignorant of JESUS. They thought it was their duty. Again, Pilate proposed to free JESUS. But, The Jews cried out, “If you let Him go, then, you are not a friend of Caesar’s.” The Jewish people were defiantly opposed to Roman’s authority. Pretending in a form of loyal attribute, they proclaimed this towards Pilate. Being hypocrites, they were most tyrannical in enforcing their own religious and national requirements. They were extreme in their remedy to commit JESUS to death, using all methods. “Whosoever maketh himself a king, speaks against Caesar.” Pilate knew that such a report, against his ruling, would be depermential to his position. These Jewish officials would not leave any tactic, to accomplish their revenge.

Pilate then took his place on the judgement seat, and again presented JESUS to the people. In a voice that was clearly heard, “Here is your King.” “Shall I crucify your King?” But, from profane and blasphemous voices went forth the words, “we have no king, but Caesar.” Thus by choosing a heathen king and the disallowance of Christ as; The True King.. they then, had rejected GOD, and had no Saviour. Pilate realized his authority was rejected, he took water out of a serviced basin, and washed his hands before the multitude. Saying, “I am innocent of the blood of this Just Person: see ye to it.” In fear and self condemnation Pilate looked upon The Saviour. In the vastness of the crowd, He was peaceful. About His Head seemed to shine a light glow. Pilate said in his own heart; “HE is a GOD.” Turning to the crowd, he spoke, “I am clear of His Blood. You take Him and crucify Him. But understand this, you priests and officials, I pronounce Him; A Just Man. May He whom He claims as His Father; judge you, and not me for this day.” then, Pilate said to JESUS, “Forgive me for this act; I cannot save You.” And when Pilate had Him scourged again, he delivered JESUS, to be crucified.

Pilate longed to deliver JESUS to freedom. But, he saw that he would loose his earthly position, in doing so. Rather, than, denouncing his worldly false honor, Pilate chose to sacrifice an innocent life. How many, to escape loss or suffering, sacrifice principle. Conscious and duty are on a single path, but self eliminates these valid qualities. When one compromises with evil, those faulty agents enter and are blended with the truth, then becoming a deepen dependancy or lie or condition, quilt can also weigh the soul down, as it becomes darkened. Pilate did yield to the demands of the officials and mob. After Christ’s crucifixion, he lost his governor’s position. Pilate’s honors were stripped from him. He lost all, he had hoped to maintain. He even ended his own life. With the heavied burden of quilt, he carried, after Christ’s verdict, he could not bear. Looking upon The Smitten Lamb Of GOD, the Jews had cried out, “His blood be on us, and on our children.” That awful cry ascended to GOD’s Throne. Their words were a pronounced sentence, against them. This was written in heaven, as a perpetual curse against them and their generations to follow. Terribly was it a realization in the destruction of Jerusalem. Which has become a manifested in the condition of the Jewish nation for eighteen hundred years. A branch severed from the vine.. awaiting the fulfillment of The Great Judgement Day… Matthew 27:2; 11-31; Mark 15:1-20; Luke 23:1-25; John 18:28-40; 19:1-16.