Behold the Man
Then came Jesus forth, wearing the crown of thorns and the purple robe. And Pilate saith unto them, Behold the man!
John 19:5 KJV
Introducing a speaker is crucial to any program, whether in church or at a civic meeting. The person who introduces the speaker usually explains the speaker’s achievements because it helps to establish credibility in the audience's eyes. The delivery of this short bio creates an ideal platform for an inspiring and motivational speech that resonates with the audience. When studying how Pilate presented Jesus to the audience after his trial, the inspiration led to something different than what Pilate intended.
Remember, during Jesus’ trial, the Scriptures noted that Pilate tried five times to release Jesus but failed.
- Then said Pilate to the chief priests and to the people, I find no fault in this man. Luke 23:4 KJV
- No, nor yet Herod: for I sent you to him; and, lo, nothing worthy of death is done unto him. Luke 23:15 KJV
- Pilate therefore, willing to release Jesus, spake again to them. Luke 23:20 KJV
- Pilate, therefore, went forth again, and saith unto them, Behold, I bring him forth to you, that ye may know that I find no fault in him. John 19:4 KJV
- And from thenceforth Pilate sought to release him: but the Jews cried out, saying, If thou let this man go, thou art, not Caesar's friend: whosoever maketh himself a king speaketh against Caesar. John 19:12 KJV
After Pilate's orders, the soldiers severely punished and humiliated Jesus. Next, Pilate presents Jesus to the audience as their King with a crown of thorns on His head and a purple robe over His shoulders. Jesus stands in their presence, bleeding from the brutal beating by the Roman soldiers. Then, Pilate states, Behold the man. In other words, Pilate introduces a suffering and helpless King as he invites them with careful consideration (Behold the man). See the tested Man, the perfect Man, the ideal Man, the Man whom God approved. Yet, Jesus’ appearance failed to arouse this crowd toward His freedom, which ultimately led to death. The audience, in unison, shouted crucify Him instead of free Him. The results expressed pure hostility, resulting in the same hostility toward God's plans for His people in the Old Testament. Such hostility arose from the selfish intent and jealousness of the Jewish leadership, who opposed Jesus throughout His ministry.
Even though this scene occurred over 2000 years ago, the same hostility occurs today. As the crowd expressed hostility towards Jesus, we see similar hostility towards Godly principles today. People often prioritize their selfish intentions over aligning with God's intentions, leading to a rejection of His principles and a resistance to living according to His teachings. This ongoing hostility highlights the timeless struggle between human desires and divine guidance. Thus, Jesus' trial when we celebrate Passion Week remains relevant today and provides a potent reminder of our need to strive for God's will over our own.
Consider this challenge: Behold the Man and react differently than those who crucified Jesus. This challenge is a call to reflect on our actions, to choose compassion, and to treat others with kindness. Let us rise above past mistakes and embrace a brighter future where we see humanity in all people. Join me in this challenge and revisit Pilate’s presentation, Behold the Man.
