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John 19:12

King James Version (KJV)

“In our prayers we talk to God, in our Bible study God talks to us, and we had better let God do most of the talking.”
— D.L. Moody

John 19:12

Verse 12 of 42

Scripture focus

And from thenceforth Pilate sought to release him: but the Jews cried out, saying, If thou let this man go, thou art not Caesar’s friend: whosoever maketh himself a king speaketh against Caesar.

John 19:12 — KJV

Commentary

Commentary on John 19:12

Theological / Devotional

To release him. The answer of Jesus (v. 11) heightened Pilate’s fears. The hardened governor was deeply impressed by the words and conduct of the mysterious person before him.

Caesar’s friend. That is, a staunch supporter of Caesar. The Jews had at last struck upon an argument that was to prove successful. Their reply was a threat, for if the emperor should learn that Pilate had attempted to shield a pretender to the title of king, the governor’s position would be in danger. Fear for his safety led Pilate to forget the religious awe with which he had regarded the prisoner.

The reply of the leaders was conspicuously hypocritical. Were the accusers friends of Caesar? Of all peoples none were more bitter than the Jews against the Roman yoke, and yet they had the duplicity to feign zealous honor for Caesar, whom they so heartily despised.

By SdaBc