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Matthew 27:15-26
In Matthew 27:15-26 is the trial of Jesus before the Roman governor Pilate. He found no reason to charge Jesus with any wrongdoing, but yet the multitude insisted that Jesus be found guilty. It is believed that Pilate did not like the Jewish people, and more directly, the religious leaders. However, it was custom for Pilate to release a prisoner to them at the Passover (Matthew 27:15). Possibly, Pilate may have suggested releasing Barabbas (a known hardened criminal) to them because of the ridiculousness of the idea, that the Jewish people would by no means want Barabbas released instead of Jesus who had done no punishable wrong. But the crowd was stirred into such a frenzy against Jesus that they would cry out to have Barabbas released instead of Jesus. Pilate then scourged Jesus, some believe, to grab the attention of the Jewish people to see the wrong that they have done in condemning an innocent man.
This is a moment of Satan lashing out at God through the sinful nature of man in what he thought was a victory cry in being more powerful than God; but we will soon learn that he is not more powerful than God Almighty as Jesus would be raised from the grave claiming victory over sin, death, and Satan once for all.
When Satan stirs the sinful nature in man, all havoc breaks loose and common since and all moral law is lost. We see it still today all around the world as Satan lashes out in his attempt to overthrow God. The Bible teaches us in 1 Peter 5:6-11 (ESV), “Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world. And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. To him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen.
Dear LORD,
The sinful nature of man is always lashing out against You and against all who confide in Christ Jesus. Please help us to be sober-minded and watchful as the Apostle Peter states in 1 Peter 5:8, that we would resist the devil when he strikes and by Your grace restore us, strengthen us, and establish us – in Christ. In Jesus name I pray, amen.