Theory question 106
Trial and Death of Jesus(a) Narrate the trial of Jesus before Pilate and the Roman authorities as recorded in Matthew. (b) Give two reasons why Pilate was wrong for condemning Jesus to death.
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(a) The chief priests and elders bound Jesus and delivered Him to Pilate (Matthew 27:1-2).
Pilate asked, "Are you the King of the Jews?" Jesus said, "You have said so" (Matthew 27:11).
He gave no answer to the chief priests' charges, and Pilate wondered greatly (Matthew 27:12-14).
Pilate offered to release Barabbas or Jesus, knowing they handed Him over out of envy (Matthew 27:15-18).
His wife sent word to have nothing to do with that righteous man (Matthew 27:19).
The crowd, persuaded by the chief priests, asked for Barabbas and shouted "Let him be crucified!" (Matthew 27:20-23).
Pilate washed his hands: "I am innocent of this man's blood"; the people said, "His blood be on us and on our children" (Matthew 27:24-25).
He released Barabbas, scourged Jesus and handed Him over; the soldiers mocked Him with a scarlet robe and crown of thorns (Matthew 27:26-31).
(b) Any two: he knew Jesus was innocent and the charge came from envy; his wife warned him; he gave in to the crowd's pressure instead of upholding justice; he failed in his duty as judge; washing his hands did not remove his responsibility.
Narrate Matthew 27:1-31, then two reasons.