Life and teachings of Jesus
25/07/2020
Day 12 Matthew 27 v 1 - 66
There are a couple of role players who had part in Jesus’ execution. Let’s have a look at who they were.
One can easily blame Judas and say that it was because of his betrayal that Jesus was arrested, but even Judas had remorse and confessed his sin, yet He was sent away by those who were suppose to intercede for his forgiveness.
Pilate, who had the authority to let Jesus go, for he couldn’t find any basis for the accusations that were made, wanted to avoid an uproar and in order to maintain his popularity among the people, simply washed his hands and considered himself innocent of Jesus’ blood.
Even though every aspect of Jesus’ trial was illegal, showing the lengths the religious leaders were prepared to go to, while breaking their own laws, to ensure He is found guilty and through that protect their institution. It was all prophesied and had to happen the way it did, for the Scriptures to be fulfilled.
The people were so emotionally charged by the religious leaders who continued to pour fuel on the fire. Majority of them never believed Jesus anyway, so it doesn’t come as a surprise that they also wanted Him eliminated as His teachings threatened the comfort of their religious lifestyle.
Let’s not forget about the Roman soldiers who mocked and beat Jesus and even cast lots for his clothes. They showed no respect for Jesus, giving Him a crown of thorns and hitting him on the head with a reed. There was one Roman officer, we know about, that acknowledged Jesus was the Son of God, although only after He died on the cross according to what was written.
Among everyone either wanting Jesus to be killed or directly being involved in His death, there was Simon of Cyrene, who carried Jesus’ cross and a man named, Joseph of Arimathea, who asked for Jesus’ body and let’s not forget the loyal women who sat at the grave, watching and waiting in anticipation…
