pramsay posted on October 26, 2009 15:36
The Governor's Authority
"Pontius Pilate, the governor."
Matthew 27:2
Only Matthew calls Pilate, "the governor." In fact, Matthew does so on seven occasions in this final account of the trial and crucifixion of the Lord Jesus. Look at verses 2, 11, 14, 15, 21, 23, 27. Matthew, who worked for the Roman government would be very conscious of governmental positions. He would, perhaps, recognize and respect authority when he saw it. But the Spirit of God may have had a different purpose in mind. Pilate is the governor; he is the representative authority for Rome. What is being done is under his authority.
This is perhaps highlighted when Pilate, having washed his hands before the multitude and having proclaimed his own innocence, the Spirit of God brings him to an abrupt halt. For it is in the next verse that we read it was the soldiers of "the governor" who took Jesus and began to abuse Him and finally impale Him on a tree. No amount of hand washing, no eloquent pronouncement of innocence, no attempt to walk away from responsibility will be allowed by the Spirit of God. The "governor" was in full control and ultimately responsible.
Questions to Consider
1. Pilate made several grave errors in vv 24-25: he devised his own means and declared his own judgment. How is this similar to what men have done since that time?
2. What are some of the choices which Pilate made that fateful day?
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This weekly meditation is prepared by Dr. Sandy Higgins. Its purpose is to give believers truth to think about and develop in their own minds and hearts throughout the week. Ultimately, as the week progresses, daily worship will result in hearts full of adoration for the Lord Jesus on the Lord's Day (Sunday) as believers gather to remember Him.
Print this off. Keep it nearby for the week. Jot down your thoughts and responses to each question. What other questions come to your mind as you meditate on this verse?