1. Pilate and the Jews (28-32)

These men who did not want to be ceremonially unclean did not hesitate to condemn an innocent man to death. Since they had no legal power to pronounce a death sentence, they asked Pilate, the Roman governor, to execute Jesus as a criminal. Pilate's actions toward the Jews revealed his compromising attitude. It looked as though Satan were in control of the world, but God was quietly working to fulfill his purpose and his promises.

2. The true kingdom (33-40)

Pilate, looking for a basis for a criminal charge, asked Jesus, 'Are you the king of the Jews?' He knew that Jesus was not leading a rebellion against Rome. Jesus admitted being a king. Then he taught Pilate about his spiritual kingdom which is based on truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to Jesus; everyone who obeys Jesus belongs to his kingdom. Perhaps Pilate had once longed to live by truth, but found the cost too high.

Application: Lord, help me to renew my hope in your eternal kingdom every day, and live according to your truth.
One Word: Stand on Jesus' side