Mark: Living the Way of Jesus in the WorldSample

First Thought 

To enact the death penalty under Roman rule, the Jewish court required the order of the Roman governor. Jesus was delivered to Pilate. Yes, I am the king of the Jews, Jesus affirmed, when directly asked by Pilate. Beyond that, He was silent. It was true Jesus was king, but He was a greater king than Pilate could imagine - king of the universe. Pilate thought he’d found a way through what he likely perceived to be a matter of Jewish political intrigue, inflamed by envy amongst the chief priests. He offered a choice - release Jesus or Barabbas. Barabbas was an insurrectionist and murderer. Unlike the Passover pilgrims who had arrived in Jerusalem with Jesus from Galilee, the crowd here, incited by the chief priests, shouted for Barabbas to be released. Pilate gave way to the pressure, adding in a cruel flogging before handing Him over to be crucified. 

What Does the Bible Say?

Why do you think Pilate was amazed at Jesus’ silence?

Living it Out

Recall Jesus prediction in Mark 10:33, ‘The Son of Man will be betrayed to the chief priests and the teachers of the law. They will condemn Him to death and will hand Him over to the Gentiles who will mock Him and spit on Him, flog Him and kills Him.’ Imagine Him doing this for you. 

Responding in Prayer

Suffering God, you chose obedience to death for me. Thank you (…). Amen.