Luke 23:13-14 Pilate called together the chief priests, the rulers and the people, and said to them, “You brought me this man as one who was inciting the people to rebellion. I have examined him in your presence and have found no basis for your charges against him.
This should have been the end of it. Pilate examined Jesus and found no fault. He sent Him to Herod who also found no fault in Him. However, he was still going to punish Him (habit? Placating?) before releasing Him. But the people wouldn’t have it, and Pilate eventually gave in.
Luke 23:15 Neither has Herod, for he sent him back to us; as you can see, he has done nothing to deserve death.
I’ve said before that we all want to feel seen and accepted. There is a lot of power in that. But mob mentality is also very real and typically very destructive. We can’t just get caught up in the frenzied crowd, yelling for the blood of an innocent Man. Jesus, help us.
Luke 23:16 Therefore, I will punish him and then release him.”
Lord, Thank You for whispering these truths to my heart. You made us for community but not for mob mentality. Help us to seek godly communities that glorify You and not angry mobs out for blood. Help us to use our voices and presence to glorify You and comfort Your people. Amen.
Luke 23:18 But the whole crowd shouted, “Away with this man! Release Barabbas to us!”
Have a blessed day.