We know very little about Pontius Pilate, except that he was a weak and compromised leader who allowed an innocent man be put to death. From God’s point of view, of course, Jesus came to die for us, but that does not negate or change the role of human responsibility, as the Apostle Peter explained to all Jerusalem (Acts 3:12-18).
If Pilate had been the head of a Leadership Institute, what would he have taught the soon-to-be-graduates in Senior Seminar? Maybe this:
In a crisis, first try appeasement through compromise, here the loophole of releasing a prisoner at Passover (Matthew 27:15-17).
Second, ignore justice, since Pilate knew Jesus was innocent, charged only because of the Jewish leaders’ envy (Matthew 27:18).
Third, don’t accept outside counsel, since Pilate was unmoved by his own wife’s dream to have nothing to do with Jesus (Matthew 27:19).
Fourth, use the crisis to make political allies in corruption, as Pilate did with Herod, who became his new best friend (Luke 23:8-12).
Fifth, give in to the mob, since Pilate obeyed the crowd inflamed by the envious priests and other religious leaders (Matthew 27:20-26).
Sixth, blame others, since Pilate made a very public display of abdicating responsibility by washing his hands (Matthew 27:24).
No one envies the decisions leaders must make when confronted with widespread violent and irrational behavior. On the other hand, Pilate’s example certainly shows that when political power is the priority, a fearful leader may quickly cast aside the rule of law.
This is important not just because a republic requires our choosing courageous leaders who impartially uphold the law, but also because God hates injustice, and it is one of the reasons judgment falls upon nations. Micah 3:9-12; Psalm 82:1-5; Proverbs 17:15
“Father, we ask that you would embolden our leaders to uphold the rule of law and reject the tribalism that is dividing our nation. We pray for a revival of righteousness, mercy, and love. In the name of Jesus. Amen.