Choose Righteousness — Scripture Reflection #016

Mark 15:14-15 (New Living Translation)

14 “Why?” Pilate demanded. “What crime has He committed?” But the mob roared even louder, “Crucify Him!” 15 So to pacify the crowd, Pilate released Barabbas to them. He ordered Jesus flogged with a lead-tipped whip, then turned Him over to the Roman soldiers to be crucified.

At the climax of Jesus’ mission on earth, we see Him held in an unfair trial set up by the religious leaders of the time. The judge of the rigged trial was to be the Roman governor, Pontius Pilate. While not much good can be said about the governor, credit can be given to Pilate for recognizing Jesus’ innocence (Luke 23:14). However, that same credit is immediately taken away when Pilate proceeds to go ahead with the crucifixion despite Jesus’ innocence.

Pontius Pilate is a prime example of forsaking the right thing to please others. Despite knowing what was right, having the power to see that right done, and receiving a warning about the situation (Matthew 27:19), Pilate made the wrong decision to please the religious leaders and promote his political position.

We must be careful to do right, even if it is in direct opposition to what those around us want. God is more concerned with us living according to His Word than with us making everyone around us comfortable or happy. Choose righteousness today!