New Testament
Luke 23:20
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, we see Pilate, the Roman governor, who is in a difficult position regarding Jesus' fate.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Pilate wanted to release Jesus, so he appealed to the crowd again.
Pilate therefore, willing to release Jesus, spake again to them.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see Pilate, the Roman governor, who is in a difficult position regarding Jesus' fate. Despite the pressure from the crowd to condemn Jesus, Pilate is inclined to set Him free. This shows Pilate's internal conflict; he recognizes Jesus' innocence but is also aware of the crowd's demands. Pilate's repeated appeals to the crowd indicate his desire to avoid injustice and to uphold what he believes is right. This moment highlights the tension between authority and public opinion, as well as the struggle to do what is morally right in the face of societal pressure. Pilate's actions reflect a common human experience: the challenge of standing up for one's beliefs when confronted with overwhelming opposition. His willingness to speak again to the crowd suggests a hope that they might reconsider their stance, revealing his desire for justice and truth to prevail, even in a politically charged environment.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Luke 23:20 to your life
This verse encourages us to stand firm in our beliefs, even when faced with pressure from others. Like Pilate, we may encounter situations where doing the right thing is challenged by popular opinion. It reminds us to seek justice and truth, regardless of the consequences.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 23:20 mean?
Luke 23:20 shows Pilate's struggle as he tries to release Jesus despite the crowd's demands for His condemnation. It highlights the conflict between Pilate's recognition of Jesus' innocence and the pressure from the public.
What is the significance of Pilate's appeal to the crowd in Luke 23:20?
Pilate's appeal to the crowd signifies his desire to uphold justice while navigating the political pressures of his role. It illustrates the tension between authority and public opinion during a critical moment.
What does the phrase 'willing to release Jesus' indicate in Luke 23:20?
The phrase 'willing to release Jesus' indicates Pilate's inclination to do what he believes is right, recognizing Jesus' innocence, despite the overwhelming pressure from the crowd to condemn Him.
How does Luke 23:20 reflect moral conflict?
Luke 23:20 reflects moral conflict by showcasing Pilate's internal struggle between his duty as a governor and his understanding of justice. He is caught between the truth of Jesus' innocence and the demands of the crowd.

The Book of Luke
Luke 1: The Births of John the Baptist and Jesus Foretold
In the days of Herod, king of Judaea, a priest named Zacharias serves in the temple. He and his wife Elisabeth are both righteous but have no children because Elisabeth is barren, and they are both old. While Zacharias burns incense, the angel Gabriel appears to him and says Elisabeth will bear a son who is to be named John. The child will be great before the Lord, will drink no wine or strong drink, and will be filled with the Holy Ghost from his mother's womb. He will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. Zacharias asks how he can know this, since he and his wife are old. Gabriel says Zacharias will be unable to speak until these things come to pass because he did not believe.
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