‘And he entered into the Praetorium again and says to Jesus, “Where are you from?” But Jesus gave him no answer.'

Pilate's words indicate his uneasiness. Superstitious ideas were taking hold of him. Could this man really be from another world? ‘Where are you from?' he asked, and there was apprehension in his voice. But the silent figure before him simply looked at him and gave no answer.

For Jesus knew that this was not the question of a seeker seeking truth and He knew that no reply would make any difference. So He said nothing. If Pilate did genuinely want to know there were ways for him to find out. But He knew that in the end Pilate was going to give way to the Judaisers. It was only Pilate's anger at being outmanoeuvred by those whom he despised that had kept him going thus long. Any answer Jesus gave would therefore only prolong His suffering.

Continues after advertising
Continues after advertising