Today I read John 19, where Jesus was crucified, even though he had no sin, and placed in a garden burial site. Today I considered that sometimes leaders have sacrificed the innocent to save themselves.
Crucifying Jesus
Pilate tried to get out of crucifying Jesus but Jewish leaders threatened Pilate concerning Jesus being called a king (John 19:42). Pilate had Jesus beaten and let soldiers put a crown of thorns and purple robe on Jesus. Pilate then brought Jesus before the people saying he did not find a reason to keep Jesus. The chief priests and officers said to crucify him because Jesus called himself the Son of God. Pilate didn’t want to and questioned Jesus. Jesus told Pilate God has the power over this situation and those that brought him to Pilate have the greater sin. Pilate wanted to release Jesus but the Jewish leaders said Pilate was against Ceasar, their only king, and threatened contacting Rome. Pilate sent Jesus to be crucified. Pilate wrote on the cross in three languages Jesus of Nazareth the King of the Jews. Jesus hung on the cross between two others, told one of the disciples to take care of his mother, drank vinegar when he said he was thirsty, and died. The soldiers pierced his side to verify Jesus was dead. Joseph requested and took Jesus’ body with Nicodemus bringing spices to bind Jesus’ body with linen. They put Jesus in a garden tomb never before used for burial.
Questions and Thoughts for Today
Even leaders who want to do a good job, sometimes sacrifice others to save themselves. Pilate did not want to crucify Jesus. He repeatedly said there was no reason to keep Jesus because Jesus did nothing wrong. The Jewish leaders threatened Pilate and Pilate’s people with calling Rome on Pilate. Pilate gave in out of fear.
What leaders have you seen do things that were wrong to protect themselves? What leaders have you seen do right regardless of the possible consequences and were protected?