1. Pilate's dilemma (1-5)

Only the Roman officials had the authority to carry out a death penalty. So the religious leaders met early in the morning and made plans. They bound Jesus, led him away and handed him over to Pilate. They made many charges against Jesus, but Jesus remained silent. Pilate knew that the leaders were acting out of envy and jealousy. Even their charge that Jesus claimed to be a king was dismissed by Pilate. The question, however, was how would Pilate respond to the truth? Would he convict an innocent man? Was he willing to accept the social and political consequences of releasing Jesus? Followers of Jesus may find themselves under similar pressures. Will we stand on the side of truth?

2. A mob mentality (6-15)

The chief priests stirred up the crowd to have Barabbas, a convicted murderer, released instead of Jesus. Again and again they shouted for Jesus to be crucified, although no one could identify any crime that he had committed. Mob mentality and popular opinion are powerful forces. Will we remain faithful to Jesus in spite of such pressures? Pilate gave in. He handed Jesus over to be flogged and crucified.