τ. τ. λόγον. This word: it is no mere ‘saying’ (ῥῆμα); like the word of Caiaphas, it has more meaning than the speakers know. It intensifies Pilate’s disquietude. The message from his wife and the awe which Christ’s presence was probably inspiring had already in some degree affected him. This mysterious claim still further excites his fears. Was it the offspring of a divinity that he had so infamously handled? Comp. Matthew 27:54.

Continues after advertising
Continues after advertising

Old Testament