Pilate's personal struggle with Jesus in his life (Good Friday 2025)

·28 min·2 clips

Isaiah 53 describes a suffering servant with no beauty, despised and pierced for our transgressions, setting the stage for Jesus's trial.

The episode begins with a reading from Isaiah 53, describing the suffering servant prophecy that foreshadows Jesus's crucifixion. It then transitions to Matthew 27, detailing Jesus's trial before Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor. The speaker introduces the concept of due process, comparing Pilate's courtroom to modern TV shows like Judge Judy and Rafferty's Rules. He explains Pilate's initial question, 'Are you the king of the Jews?', as a legal crux, noting Jesus's ambiguous reply, 'So you say.' The analysis includes references to John 18 and Luke 23, which provide longer accounts of the accusations against Jesus, such as subverting the nation and opposing taxes to Caesar. Pilate's attempt to avoid jurisdiction by sending Jesus to Herod in Galilee is discussed, highlighting his growing puzzlement. The speaker cites Archbishop Sir Marcus Loane's book 'The King is Here' to delve into Pilate's mindset, particularly his offer to release either Jesus or Barabbas, assuming the crowd would choose Jesus. The episode explores the tender note of Pilate's wife's warning dream, describing her as a 'good and tender-hearted woman' who urged Pilate not to condemn Jesus. Personal anecdotes are shared, such as the speaker's difficulty inviting neighbors to church during Alpha courses, paralleling Pilate's hesitation. A contrast is drawn between Pilate's failure and Billy Graham's conversion after being invited to a tent meeting, emphasizing the impact of simple invitations. The episode ends with a prayer for boldness in sharing faith and a final reading from Matthew 27 about Joseph of Arimathea claiming Jesus's body and the securing of the tomb.

As heard by us

A patient sermon on Pilate, translation, and Jesus' silence.

The sermon moves through Isaiah 53, Matthew 27, and John 18 with real care. Pilate's exchange with Jesus is treated as something heavier than a courtroom scene, and the slow pace helps.

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Why you'd press play

If Pilate, translation, and Jesus' silence keep tugging at you, start here.

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

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