Let's check the details

When you define loving your enemies you think about wanting what is best for them, about wishing them no harm and about acting in a way that shows these desires.  To see the power of Jesus’ example in fulfilling these qualities, we need to focus on the details of how he actually engaged those who stood against him, as well as the results of that engagement.  One of many great examples of this would be his conversations with Pilate on the day of Jesus' crucifixion.  Here was Jesus, being accused of things he simply did not do.  He stood before Pilate as an already-condemned man according to the Jewish leadership of Jerusalem.  Pilate was the one man who could have stopped the conspiracy.  He was the one authority who could have said, “No, I will not consent to the crucifixion of an entirely innocent man.”

Pilate vs. Jesus

The interchange between them is both fascinating and revealing.  Pilate questioned Jesus with several relevant inquiries.  Jesus answered him with specific kinds of answers designed to be respectful, reveal pertinent truth but not bargain or plead for his life or for justice.  Jesus told Pilate all he needed to know regarding who he was and what he stood for.  Pilate heard and then feared, for he knew the wrath of Jesus’ accusers was both blind and ferocious.  While Jesus’ life was hanging in the balance of the power of the governor’s position, Jesus reminded Pilate that he was merely a man and had his authority only because God himself allowed him to.  So, Jesus told Pilate what he needed to know and Jesus allowed Pilate to cave in to the fury of his accusers.  Jesus showed him respect, gave him truth and accepted his spineless decision.

In our April 2, 2018 podcast, “Condemned to Death, How did Jesus Love His Enemies?” we talked about the details of this account as well as several others.  What we found was a pattern of calm wisdom applied by Jesus.  At every turn he protected those around him, gave the opportunity for truth to be seen and hypocrisy to be exposed.  The telling and conversation about these stories sets your table for an inspiring look at who Jesus really is as well as a profound understanding of what it means to love your enemies. Listen in and see for yourself!