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Easter Story

THE DEATH SENTENCE

When Pilate realized even Herod had not condemned Jesus, he tried to reason with the assembly who'd brought the charges in the first place.

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. Neither has Herod, for he sent him back to us; as you can see, he has done nothing to deserve death. Therefore, I will punish him and then release him.

The assembly reminded Pilate he had to release a prisoner during the Passover feast. They asked for Barabbas, a man imprisoned for murder and leading insurrection in the city. Unconvinced, Pilate pleaded with the crowd as they shouted to crucify Jesus:

Why? What crime has this man committed? I have found in him no grounds for the death penalty. Therefore, I will have him punished and then release him.

Still clamoring for Barabbas, the crowd pressed Pilate to put Jesus to death. By this time, Jesus was wearing both the purple robe and a crown of thorns. Pilate told the crowd:

Here is the man!

The people shouted for His crucifixion. Pilate told them:

You take him and crucify him. As for me, I find no basis for a charge against him.

Washing his hands, to absolve himself of any responsibility, Pilate handed Jesus over to be crucified.