New Testament
Matthew 27:22
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, Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor, is faced with a difficult decision regarding Jesus, who is referred to as the Christ.
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Pilate asked, "Then what should I do with Jesus who is called Christ?" They all shouted, "Crucify him!"
Pilate saith unto them, What shall I do then with Jesus which is called Christ? They all say unto him, Let him be crucified.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor, is faced with a difficult decision regarding Jesus, who is referred to as the Christ. Pilate is trying to understand the crowd's demands and seeks to know what they want him to do with Jesus. The crowd responds emphatically, calling for Jesus' crucifixion. This moment highlights the intense pressure Pilate is under from the people, who are influenced by religious leaders and their own expectations. Despite finding no fault in Jesus, Pilate ultimately gives in to the crowd's demands, illustrating the conflict between justice and public opinion. This scene sets the stage for the crucifixion, a pivotal event in the Christian faith, symbolizing sacrifice and redemption. It also raises questions about moral responsibility and the consequences of yielding to societal pressure, as Pilate's decision leads to significant historical and spiritual ramifications. Explore related authority.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Matthew 27:22 to your life
This verse encourages us to consider how we respond to societal pressures and the importance of standing firm in our beliefs. It reminds us to seek truth and justice, even when faced with overwhelming opposition or popular opinion.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Pilate's question about Jesus signify?
Pilate's question, 'What shall I do then with Jesus which is called Christ?' signifies his struggle with authority and moral responsibility. He is caught between his role as a governor, the demands of the crowd, and his own judgment that finds no fault in Jesus. This moment reflects the tension between political power and personal conviction.
Why did the crowd choose crucifixion for Jesus?
The crowd chose crucifixion for Jesus due to a combination of factors, including influence from religious leaders, fear of losing their status, and a desire for a scapegoat for their societal issues. The call for crucifixion illustrates how public opinion can be swayed and how collective voices can lead to tragic outcomes.
What can we learn from Pilate's decision?
Pilate's decision to yield to the crowd's demands teaches us about the dangers of succumbing to societal pressure. It serves as a reminder to prioritize truth and justice over popularity, encouraging individuals to stand firm in their beliefs even when faced with overwhelming opposition.
How does this verse relate to themes of justice?
This verse highlights the theme of justice by showcasing Pilate's internal conflict. Despite recognizing Jesus' innocence, he ultimately prioritizes public opinion over justice, raising questions about the integrity of legal systems and the moral dilemmas faced by those in authority.
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