John 18:37-40
37 Then Pilate said to him, “So you are a king?” Jesus answered, “You say that I am a king. For this purpose, I was born and for this purpose, I have come into the world—to bear witness to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth listens to my voice.” 38 Pilate said to him, “What is truth?”After he had said this, he went back outside to the Jews and told them, “I find no guilt in him. 39 But you have a custom that I should release one man for you at the Passover. So do you want me to release to you the King of the Jews?” 40 They cried out again, “Not this man, but Barabbas!” Now Barabbas was a robber.
Last week we discussed how the question, “What is truth,” may be the most important question one can ask in their lifetime. We also broke down different levels of truth, and I believe the search for supernatural truth, such as our meaning and purpose for being created, warrants much of our time and commitment.
Now, as we look back up at the text, another important question is, “What do you do when you find truth?” No matter the level of truth, not abiding by that truth comes with a consequence. Depending on the level of truth, the consequence could range from mild to severe.
Pilate searched for truth, as it concerned the guilt or innocence of JESUS. The judgment of JESUS was in his hands and he truthfully concluded that there was “no guilt in him.” Yet, Pilate sought to act in a way that was not according to the truth that he found. Pilate could have set JESUS free, instead, he cowered out. He exchanged the life of a man whom he deemed innocent for the life of a man who was already deemed guilty of insurrection and murder!
Maybe Pilate was afraid of losing his power and position? Maybe he thought there may be a riot and he would lose his life? I do not know. However, what do we do when we find truth? Do we let it guide us? Do we let outside influences hinder us? Friends? Overall acceptance? A job or roster spot on a sports team?
I pray that GOD would help us to let truth guide us. I pray that we do not substitute truth for a lie.
Grace and peace.
