Mark 15:12 – “What shall I do, then, with the one you call the king of the Jews?” Pilate asked them.
Extended Explanation
In this verse, Pilate confronts the crowd after they have demanded the release of Barabbas, a convicted criminal. Pilate now faces a moral dilemma: what to do with Jesus, whom the religious leaders accuse of claiming to be the “king of the Jews.” Pilate’s question isn’t driven by a desire for justice. Instead, it reflects his struggle to appease the crowd while trying to distance himself from responsibility. He knows that Jesus is innocent, but he is unwilling to stand against the crowd and the religious leaders.
Pilate’s question, “What shall I do with the one you call the king of the Jews?” is more than a question of legal judgment. It’s a question of spiritual significance, one that everyone must answer. Pilate’s failure to act on what he knows is right leads to Jesus’ crucifixion, but ultimately, this fulfills God’s plan for salvation.
Historical Context
Pilate was the Roman governor of Judea, serving under Emperor Tiberius. His primary responsibility was to maintain peace and enforce Roman law. The Jewish religious leaders knew that Pilate would act in his own political interest, which is why they framed Jesus as a political threat who claimed to be king (Luke 23:2). Pilate could see through their motives (Mark 15:10), but he also understood the danger of a potential riot during Passover, when Jerusalem was crowded with Jewish pilgrims.
Pilate’s question reflects his attempt to find a way out of this difficult situation. He had already declared that he found no basis for a charge against Jesus (Luke 23:4), but the pressure from the crowd put him in a position where he felt trapped between justice and political survival.
Theological Implications
Pilate’s question highlights the central issue of Jesus’ identity and mission. The crowd and the religious leaders reject Jesus as their King, but their rejection is part of God’s plan to bring salvation. By submitting to this unjust trial, Jesus fulfills His role as the Suffering Servant prophesied in Isaiah 53:7: “He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth.”
This verse also illustrates human responsibility in responding to Jesus. Pilate had the authority to release Jesus but chose to prioritize his own political safety. His failure to stand for truth shows the consequences of ignoring God’s revelation and choosing the approval of people over obedience to God.
Literary Analysis
The structure of Pilate’s question is significant. By saying, “the one you call the king of the Jews,” Pilate distances himself from any personal belief in Jesus’ kingship. His words are filled with sarcasm and detachment, reflecting his attempt to avoid taking responsibility for Jesus’ fate. However, the irony is that Pilate is unwittingly declaring the truth. Jesus is the King, not just of the Jews, but of all creation.
This question also builds tension in the narrative. Pilate’s hesitation and the crowd’s growing demand for crucifixion emphasize the contrast between Jesus’ innocence and the injustice of His trial. The reader is left anticipating the tragic outcome while understanding that it is part of God’s greater plan.
Biblical Cross-References
- John 18:37 – When Pilate asks Jesus about His kingship, Jesus responds, “You say that I am a king. In fact, the reason I was born and came into the world is to testify to the truth.”
- Isaiah 53:3 – “He was despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain.”
- Luke 23:4 – Pilate declares to the crowd, “I find no basis for a charge against this man.”
- Acts 3:13-14 – Peter, addressing the people after Jesus’ resurrection, reminds them: “You handed him over to be killed, and you disowned him before Pilate, though he had decided to let him go.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
Pilate’s question is one that every person must answer: “What will you do with Jesus?” Will we recognize Him as King and Savior, or will we, like the crowd, reject Him? Pilate’s failure to stand for truth serves as a warning for believers today. We are often faced with situations where we must choose between doing what is right and seeking the approval of others. This verse challenges us to make decisions based on faith, not fear.
It also reminds us that indifference to Jesus is not a neutral position. Pilate tried to wash his hands of responsibility (Matthew 27:24), but he was still guilty of allowing injustice. In the same way, failing to respond to Jesus is, in itself, a response of rejection. Faith requires action, and accepting Jesus means living in obedience to Him.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Despite the rejection Jesus faced, God’s love remained steadfast. Jesus willingly endured rejection and injustice because of His love for humanity. Romans 5:8 says, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Even when humanity rejected God’s gift of salvation, Jesus did not abandon His mission.
God’s love is also patient and forgiving. After His resurrection, Jesus’ disciples spread the message of salvation, offering forgiveness even to those who had called for His crucifixion. This demonstrates that God’s love is available to all who repent and believe in Him.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Pilate’s question focuses on Jesus’ identity as the King of the Jews, but Jesus’ kingship goes far beyond earthly titles. In Revelation 19:16, Jesus is described as the King of kings and Lord of lords. His trial before Pilate, where He is mocked as a king, is actually the pathway to His ultimate victory. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus establishes His eternal kingdom, offering salvation to all who trust in Him.
Jesus’ silence and willingness to endure injustice demonstrate His obedience to God’s plan. He could have defended Himself or called down angels to rescue Him, but He chose to submit to the cross for the sake of humanity. His kingship is one of humility, sacrifice, and love.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How do you respond when faced with the choice between standing for Christ or seeking the approval of others?
- What does Pilate’s failure to act on what he knew was right teach you about the importance of moral conviction?
- How does Jesus’ willingness to be rejected by the crowd reflect His love for humanity?
- In what ways can you actively acknowledge Jesus as King in your daily life?
- What does this verse teach you about the danger of indifference to Jesus’ identity and message?