The True King | John 19:1-27
Sermon Discussion | John 19:1-27
Brian used a great illustration of a tool box. We all have a tool box that we use and pull out the necessary tool in a given situation in order to achieve the outcome we desire.Talk about the tools you have in your tool box that are easy for you to pull out. Be honest with each other- is it intelligence, looks, charm, position? Talk about other tools that the world uses, maybe that you have seen or experienced personally in order to get what they want. Why is it so easy for us to use the power tools in the box as opposed to trusting in the real power found in Jesus?
The Romans think Jesus is a joke, absolutely no threat to the Roman Empire. They beat him and belittle him - even crown him as King of the Jews with a crown of thorns and mock him with a purple robe that signifies royalty. There is no kiss on the check, but rather a slap across the face.The irony is that the Romans are coronating our king, they just don't know it. As a follower of Jesus, we get mocked and belittled too. How do you stay strong in your faith? Share a time when your faith in Jesus was put to the test and you felt like a joke. How did you cope and respond?
In verses 4-6, Jesus is brought out before the chief priests and again Pilate reiterates that he finds no guilt in Him. Brain encourages us to put ourselves in the scene, and visualize Jesus standing there being mocked. John is encouraging us to "behold the man", just as Pilate tells the Jewish leaders. It is a real event that took place- not just a story. What do we see in Jesus at that moment? the Jewish leaders? in Pilate himself? How does the scene make you feel?
There is evidence that as this scene with Pilate and the chief priests unfolds, that Jesus was reciting Psalms. Read Psalm 22. What do we find there? How is it encouraging to you?
In the midst of all that is going on and all the voices that are shouting and talking and asking questions, Jesus remains silent until verse 11 when he finally speaks. He then changes the entire conversation. What does he say to Pilate? Why is this so important? How does Pilate respond?