John 19:12
From then on Pilate sought to release him, but the Jews cried out, “If you release this man, you are not Caesar’s friend. Everyone who makes himself a king opposes Caesar.”
Have you ever been in a situation where you knew the right thing to do, but pressure from family, friends, or co-workers moved you in the wrong direction? It seems that peer pressure has not been relegated to our teen years. Sometimes it comes out you in an obvious manner, with words of cajoling or ridicule. Other times it can be more subtle as you assume what the reactions of people might be if you stand your ground or speak your mind. Either way you cut it, your allegiance is not to what’s best for the interested parties or even what the LORD would have you do. Your allegiance is to yourself.
The Jews knew Pilate’s situation and sought to take advantage of it. They also knew he was a prideful man, and not above compromise. The last thing he needed was another report to Rome that the Jews were getting out of control. He had a hard enough time dealing with the Pharisees as well as King Herod, so even though he knew Jesus was not guilty of anything regarding Roman law, he had become a lynchpin that could unhinge the situation in Jerusalem. Should he do what was right in the eyes of the law? Maybe he should heed the pleadings of his wife, who said “Have nothing to do with that just man: for I have suffered many things today in a dream because of him” (Mt 27:19). What voices do you listen to when you are feeling tempted or pressured to compromise your faith?
Pontius Pilate was a man ruled by fear as well as ambition. History tells us that the only reason he held his lofty position was because of his marriage to Claudia, the granddaughter of Emperor Augustus. His fear of loss was more powerful than his understanding of Jesus’ innocence and his pride would not allow him to succumb to his bride’s advice. Sadly, we all struggle with our “Pontius Pilate” moments when we must choose between right and wrong. But unlike the Roman Governor, we possess a power that he did not—the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. You see, sin is rather simple. Do it or don’t do it. Take a bite or restrain yourself. Say “yes” or say “no.” Fold to the pressure of the crowd or stand on the faithfulness of God. As always, the choice is exclusively yours.
I have claimed Galatians 2:20 as my life verse in order to remind me of my calling. “I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” I used to have it imprinted on the inside arm of my glasses, but all too often, it’s impact would remain on that small piece of plastic. The fact is, sometimes I live up to that calling and sometimes I live down…and choose Pontius Pilate’s path. I try not to take God’s Grace too lightly, but even when I do, His love is more than sufficient to overcome my sin. Sadly, as far as we know, the eternally infamous Roman Governor never had that in his life. I truly hope that you do.
