JESUS FACES PILATE

                                              Matthew 27:1-2,11-26 (728)

  Introduction

        A.  Background regarding the Jewish authorities taking Jesus before Pilate.

        B.  Because of public pressure, Pilate delivered Jesus to be crucified.

        C.  Let’s look at several choices between which we must decide.

   I.  Will we face the issues or dodge the issues?

        A.  What did Pilate do?  He had a responsibility.  He looked for loopholes (Luke

              23:15-16).  He kept trying to persuade the people to think it through (Matthew

              27:17,21,22,23).  Pilate washed his hands of the matter (Matthew 27:24).

        B.  What will we do about

              1.  Teaching/upholding the truth?  2 Timothy 4:1-5 (880)  Will I stand or compromise?

                   Face responsibility or dodge responsibility?

              2.  Living by biblical values?  Romans 12:9-21 (830)

              3.  My responsibilities to the church?  Romans 12:3-8.  Will I face these responsibilities

                   or try to give them away?

  II.  Will we serve as Christians or excuse ourselves?

        A.  What did Pilate do?  Matthew 27:24

        B.  In contrast: John 13:1-5,12-17 (792)

        C.  What will we do about meeting the needs of others?  Matthew 25:31-40 (726)

  Conclusion

        A.  Matthew 27:24; John 13:5.  Question:  Which basin will I choose-the one Pilate used

              or the one Jesus used? 

Click here to add text.