The Gospel of Luke 23:6-7 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“When Pilate heard of Galilee, he asked whether the man were a Galilæan. And as soon as he knew that he belonged unto Herod's jurisdiction, he sent him to Herod, who himself also was at Jerusalem at that time.” (Luke 23:6-7 KJV).

These passages give a surprising twist to show that Pilate really has no interest in local religious conflict which he sensed by the way these religious fanatics are presenting their accusations. Their attempt of trying to lure Pilate, by presenting this case as a threat to Roman rule, did not work. Pontius Pilate learns from the Lord’s accusers that He is from Galilee, where He started His teaching. So, he sends the Lord to Herod Antipas, who is also at Jerusalem for the Passover.

Pilate passes the buck realizing the Lord falls under Herod’s legal authority. He sends the Lord to Herod to avoid handling what he suspects a hard case to deal with. It is worth noting that Pilate’s role as Roman governor or prefect for Judea, is to maintain public order—especially during crowded festivals like the Passover which is being celebrated in this moment. He is normally stationed in Caesarea, but moves to Jerusalem with extra troops during major Jewish holidays to suppress potential riots or political uprisings.

Unbeknownst to Pilate, he has no way out of this case. He is set to be involved being the supreme judicial authority in the region. Only he holds the “jus gladii” (the right of the sword), meaning he alone has the power to pronounce and execute a death sentence, most especially crucifixion. And the Lord Jesus is prophesied to be executed on the cross which only Pilate can proclaim. This must come to pass for our redemption.

Pilate can’t sulk. He, only, can send a person to death with pierced hands and feet on the cross. Scriptures prophesied, as it is written: “I am poured out like water, and all my bones are out of joint; my heart is like wax; it is melted within my breast; my strength is dried up like a potsherd, and my tongue sticks to my jaws; you lay me in the dust of death. For dogs encompass me; a company of evildoers encircles me; they have pierced my hands and feet—” (Psalm 22:14-16 ESV).

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.

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