Pontius Pilate was the 5th Prefect of Judea who ruled over the area for ten years (A.D. 26-36). Pilate was a good example of an unprincipled achiever who will sacrifice what is right to accomplish he own selfish goals and ambitions. Although he knew in his heart that Jesus was innocent of all charges brought against him by the Sanhedrin, he caved to the demands of the crowd rather than risk a likely personal setback to his career. Sadly, this is a real temptation for anyone in a position of power.
Jewish historian Flavius Josephus shares with us a modicum of information prior to A.D. 26. Some incomplete information shows that Pontius Pilate was more than likely an Italian-born Roman citizen whose family was well off financially, thus qualifying him to be of the middle class. He probably held various military posts prior to his appointment in Judea. Pilate governed areas of Judea, Samaria, and the areas south as far as the Dead Sea to Gaza. As Prefect Pilate had absolute authority over all non-Roman citizens of the province. He reported to the Roman governor of the region, who lived in Syria to the north (Luke 2:2).
Pilate’s relationship with the Jews had always been stormy. To the Jews he was insensitive to their religious beliefs. The Jews seemed to know how to get Pilate to rescind some of the more stifling pro-Roman policies he invoked ... by rioting. The scene they would cause would be highly disruptive and potentially dangerous. The enraged situation would cause Pilate to back down, thus demonstrating a weakness that the Jews exploited as often as they felt it was necessary. He didn’t want news to get out of an uprising. That type of information could spell the end of his rule in Judea.
Scripture refers to Pontius Pilate as the Roman governor of the Judean province; however, according to my research that doesn’t appear to be the case. The appointed ruler of each Roman province was a “Legate”, who was a provincial governor appointed by the emperor, and was responsible directly to either the Senate or the Emperor. According to my reading, in Pilate’s case, the Legate or Governor was seated in Syria as I stated above. Next in line was the Prefect, who was a person appointed to a position of command or authority. A lesser official would be a Procurator. The proper title for Pontius Pilate would have been Prefect ... appointed by the Legate / Governor.
The Jews sent Jesus to see Pilate regarding the “crimes” he had committed against Rome, by claiming to be a King. The Jews thought saying that he was a King would get Jesus put down as it would be in direct conflict with the Emperor of Rome. However, Pilate found nothing wrong with Jesus that would cause him to be executed, which is what the religious leaders wanted.
“For Pilate, there was never a doubt about Jesus’ innocence. Three separate times he declared Jesus not guilty. He couldn’t understand why these people wanted to kill Jesus, but his fear of the Jews’ political pressure made him decide to allow Jesus’ crucifixion. Because of the people’s threat to inform the emperor that Pilate hadn’t eliminated a rebel against Rome, Pilate went against what he knew was right. In desperation, he chose to do wrong.” [1]
After the death of Jesus, Pilate would continue in office for another 3 years, showing that Tiberius (the Emperor) considered him an effective administrator. Pilate’s later history is shrouded in mystery. Josephus tells of a bloody encounter with the Samaritans, who filed a complaint with Pilate’s superior, Vitellius, the governor of Syria. Pilate was ordered to stand before the Emperor to answer for his conduct. Historic reports state that he was exiled to the city of Vienne in Gaul (France) where he eventually committed suicide.
Up next, “Why Did Jesus Have to Die?” Until then, walk with the King and be a blessing.
In His name & for His glory,
Richard Keller
Bread of Life Ministries
[1] The Life Application Study Bible; p2159.
Resources: The Life Application Study Bible; Nelson’s New Illustrated Bible Dictionary.
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