John 18:28–40 – Jesus on Trial

In this passage, Jesus is brought from the house of Caiaphas, the high priest, to the Roman governor Pontius Pilate early in the morning. The Jewish leaders, careful not to defile themselves before the Passover, refuse to enter Pilate’s headquarters, so Pilate comes out to them. They accuse Jesus of being a criminal but do not specify the charges. Pilate questions them and then returns inside to interrogate Jesus directly.

Pilate asks Jesus if He is the King of the Jews. Jesus responds by turning the question back on Pilate, eventually explaining that His kingdom is not of this world. Pilate, puzzled but unconvinced of any guilt, tells the crowd he finds no basis for a charge against Jesus.

As part of a Passover custom, Pilate offers to release one prisoner, suggesting Jesus. However, the crowd chooses instead to release Barabbas, a known criminal. Despite Pilate’s growing awareness of Jesus’ innocence, the political and social pressure begins to mount.

This passage highlights the tension between earthly authority and divine purpose. It sets the stage for the crucifixion, showing both the injustice of the trial and the fulfillment of Jesus’ mission.