Studies 1 to 3
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PER344
The Return before Pontius Pilate
Pericope PER344 analyzes Jesus’ return before Pontius Pilate after his appearance before Herod Antipas, an episode reported only by Luke. Pilate, finding no fault deserving death under Roman law, tries to resist the pressure of the Jewish religious leaders. The article offers a precise chronological reconstruction of the morning of the Friday of the Passion and raises the linguistic question of the exchanges between Jesus and Pilate, which were most likely held in Greek.
Matthew 27.11-14 (King James Version) :And Jesus stood before the governor: and the governor asked him, saying, Art thou the King of the Jews? And Jesus said unto him, Thou sayest.And when he was accused of the chief priests and elders, he answered nothing.Then said Pilate unto him, Hearest thou not how many things they witness against thee?And he answered him to never a word; insomuch that the governor marvelled greatly.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER345
The release of a prisoner
During the trial of Jesus before Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor tries to use the Passover custom of releasing a prisoner in order to avoid condemning Jesus. He offers the crowd a choice between Jesus and Barabbas, a notorious criminal, convinced that the people will make the right choice. His wife's intervention strengthens his hesitation. This scene, attested by all four gospels, illustrates the manipulation by the religious authorities and theologically prefigures redemptive substitution.
Luke 23.23 (King James Version) :And they were instant with loud voices, requiring that he might be crucified. And the voices of them and of the chief priests prevailed.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER348
Pilate’s Efforts to Save Jesus
The pericope PER348 examines Pontius Pilate’s repeated attempts to save Jesus during the trial before the praetorium in Jerusalem, on a Friday morning. Based mainly on John 19.4-15, it traces the political and religious pressures that lead Pilate to condemn Jesus despite his conviction of his innocence. This passage reveals the tension between justice, political power and religious authority during the Passion of Christ.
John 19.14 (King James Version) :And it was the preparation of the passover, and about the sixth hour: and he saith unto the Jews, Behold your King!King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org