Passage
Matthew 27:1-26 (ESV)
God Accepts Those Who Fear Him
Acts 10:17-35
Key Verse: 10:34
Innocent Jesus Was Condemned
Date: Dec. 26, 2015
Daily Bread
Key Verse: 27:11
First, Judas' tragic end (1-10). The Jewish Sanhedrin tried and condemned Jesus (26:65). Then they brought Jesus to the Roman governor, Pontius Pilate. Judas was seized with remorse for betraying an innocent man, Jesus. He tried to return the betrayal money, but they used it to buy a field. This too fulfilled Scripture. Judas couldn't undo what he had done. No one can undo their sins. We have to repent by turning from sin and asking God's forgiveness.
Second, the trial before Pilate (11-26). Pilate asked Jesus, "Are you the king of the Jews?" Jesus did not waver: "You have said so." The same words condemned him before the Jewish Sanhedrin (26:64). Jesus made no reply to charges and accusations. Pilate offered to release Jesus or a well-known criminal, Barabbas. Even Pilate's wife had a nightmare about innocent Jesus. The crowd was swayed to choose Barabbas. Pilate washed his hands to escape guilt. Jesus was innocent. He took our condemnation, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring us to God (1Pe 3:18).
Prayer: Lord Jesus, I am the guilty one, but you died in my place. You are worthy of my life and best love.
One Word: Innocent Jesus was condemned for us guilty sinners
