Devotional Day 25 for Thursday 3/25

Reading: Luke 23:1-25
Additional Reading: Hebrews 1:1-14

The longest day in human history began with the betrayal of an innocent man.  It continued with a sham trial that lasted until day break.  Now in the early morning hours, Jesus stands before the only man in Jerusalem that can seal his fate - the Roman governor Pilate.

The author Luke's primary focus in this passage is the innocence of Jesus highlighted by Pilate's reluctance to sentence him to death.  Here are Pilate's words and actions.

• "I find no guilt in this man."  (vs. 4)
• He sent him to Herod when he found out Jesus was outside his jurisdiction (vs. 6-7)
• "After examining him, I did not find this man guilty of any the charges against him (vs. 14)
• "Neither did Herod, for he sent him back to us..." (vs. 15)
• "Look, nothing deserving death has been done by him." (vs. 15)
• Pilate addressed them once more desiring to release Jesus... (vs. 20)
• "I have found no guilt in him deserving death." (vs. 22)

Why is the innocence of Jesus so important to Luke?  To understand why, we must understand that Jesus was preparing to offer his life as a sacrifice for all sin.  According to Leviticus 22:21, "And when anyone offers a sacrifice of peace offerings to the LORD to fulfill a vow or as a freewill offering from the herd or from the flock, to be accepted it must be perfect; there shall be no blemish in it."

Jesus' innocence is of primary importance because a less than perfect offering could not accomplish what the author of Hebrews reveals it accomplished: "Christ had offered for all time a single sacrifice for sins... by which he has perfected for all time those who are being sanctified." (Hebrews 10:12,14)

Jesus led a perfect life and was the perfect sacrifice.  Because of this he is able to forgive and make holy all who come to him acknowledging their sin.  He has borne our sin on the cross.  Our sins are washed away by the blood of Jesus.  No sacrifice on our part is necessary.  This reality is what Luke and the author of Hebrews point us to.  Allow this truth to sink deep into your heart.