Don't Exchange the Just Man for the Unjust

Rev. Tse Amable | October 18 2024 | John 18:28-40

KEY VERSE:

They shouted back, “No, not him! Give us Barabbas!” NOW BARABBAS HAD TAKEN PART IN A REBELLION. John 18:40 (NIV)

MESSAGE:

Governor Pilate was an example of a weak ruler and judge. Having displayed a lack of interest in the truth, Pilate then revealed a lack of commitment to justice. He lacked the courage of his convictions. If Jesus Christ was innocent of all charges, then Pilate should have set Him free. Instead, Pilate began a series of compromising moves to avoid dealing with an inconvenient truth in a difficult circumstance. Firstly, when Pilate found out Jesus Christ was from Galilee, he sent Him to Herod (Luke 23:6-7). Secondly, Pilate tried to appeal to the crowd (John 18:38), hoping to by-pass the desire of the chief priests and elders. Knowing Jesus Christ was popular, Pilate thought the crowd would prefer Jesus Christ to Barabbas. But the leaders proved to be persuasive (compare with Matthew 27:20). The offer to release Barabbas who was guilty of murder and insurrection showed poor judgment for a person responsible for Rome's political interests.

This is what happens in our courts when we see justice being denied to the innocent and rather to the guilty. It happens when judges (who have been compromised with money and other material gifts) are bent on pleasing powerful and wealthy men and women in society. It happens when judges seek to be always in the good books of their political “god-fathers.” When it happens, the truth is crucified and falsehood is acquitted. It is a travesty of justice when the just is exchanged and punished instead of the unjust.

As the people of God, may we continue to pray that our courts are chaired by magistrates, judges and justices who have the fear of God in them and not corruptible people who will not give righteous judgements. Let us continue to pray that bad judges will be exposed and removed from their chairs on the bench. And if we have the evidence, let us be bold and take advantage of the law by writing petitions for the dismissal of corrupt judges.

FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:

Are you concerned about the state of affairs in the judicial system? What can you do to build confidence in the courts? Will you join in any demonstration or protest against the miscarriage of justice?

PRAYER:

Father, we pray and commit our judges and the entire judicial system into your hands. Give us good judges after the kind of King Solomon who will administer justice without fear or favour. Amen!

THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.

SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!

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DAILY word study: SHOUTED The word "shouted" comes from the Greek kraugazo (κράζω), meaning to cry out or scream loudly. It often implies a loud and public outcry, particularly one filled with passion or emotion. In John 18:40, the word "shouted" highlights the crowd's unified cry for Barabbas, symbolizing a rejection of justice. Throughout Scripture, kraugazo often marks critical moments of intense public outcry. The crowd’s shouting in John 18:40 reflects the power of collective pressure to subvert justice. In this case, the voices of the people overshadowed the truth, leading to the unjust release of a murderer over the innocent Christ. This moment warns believers of the dangers of following popular opinion over righteous judgment, encouraging us to stand firm in truth, even when the majority pushes for injustice. Reflections: How often do we find ourselves swayed by popular opinion rather than standing up for what is right? Are you willing to choose the truth, even if it goes against the crowd?

𝔹𝔸ℙ𝕋𝕀𝕊𝕋 Daily Devotional | AUDIO VERSION | OCTOBER 18, 2024𝔹𝔸ℙ𝕋𝕀𝕊𝕋 Daily Devotional

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