The Question of All Questions - From His Heart - Week of April 21, 2016

Nearly 2000 years ago, a particular day came that was unlike any other day in history.  Looking back on it, we have dubbed it “Good Friday.”  But for the true followers of Jesus, that day was anything but good.   
 
In the wee hours of the morning, Jesus was arrested by the Jewish religious leaders.  He was tried in their kangaroo court and convicted of the crime of blasphemy because He claimed to be the Son of God (see John 19:8).  The sentence for blasphemy, as prescribed in Leviticus 24:16, was death. However, due to the widespread popularity of Jesus, the religious leaders feared the people.  They needed Rome to do their dirty work and carry out the execution. 
 
Enter Pilate, Rome’s Governor of Judea. 
 
Pilate quickly ascertained that the Jewish religious leaders had no grounds to present Jesus for execution.  Jesus had committed no crime against Rome.  In an attempt to satiate the crowd’s bloodlust, Pilate determined to punish Jesus and release Him.  Alas, that plan failed as the riotous crowd was not appeased.  So, Pilate resorted to Plan B.  Did the crowd want him to release Jesus or Barabbas?  The choice was so obvious.  Barabbas was a notorious, murdering dirt bag.  Surely this crowd or any crowd would choose Jesus, right?  Wrong.  To Pilate’s shock and dismay, the manipulated crowd cried out for Barabbas. 
 
In response, Pilate asked the question of all questions, “Then what shall I do with Jesus who is called Christ?”  Their answer was tragic, “Let Him be crucified!” 
 
WHAT IS YOUR ANSWER?
 
If we were to boil down, all of life to one solitary question, it would be the question asked by Pontius Pilate.  Jesus is the unavoidable, inescapable, undeniable, one and only King and Savior.   What you and I do with Him determines our eternity.
 
What are the possible responses to Pilate’s lingering question that people give today?
 
1.  Some vehemently reject Him.  They can’t stand His rule and reign.  “Let Him be crucified” is an appropriate response for them.    
 
2.  Some give lip-service support for Jesus.  They cheer Him at His triumphal entry, but quickly turn on Him when He doesn’t do what they want Him to do.   
 
3.  Some try not to decide at all concerning Jesus.  They ride the fence and take the fifth, hoping a “no-decision” will leave them guiltless.  It won’t.  Not to decide IS a decision … a damnable decision.          
                    
4.  Some give Him His rightful place as King, and they willingly lay down their lives for Him.  These folks understand that Jesus is the pearl of great price, and they take a stand for Him, regardless of the consequences. 
 
How do you respond?  I hope and pray #4 is where you land.  All other responses are sinking sand. 
 
Albert B. Simpson was a preacher and theologian of yesteryear.  He wrote the lyrics to this sobering song: 
 
Jesus is standing in Pilate’s hall,
Friendless, forsaken, betrayed by all;
Hearken! what meaneth the sudden call?
What will you do with Jesus?

What will you do with Jesus?
Neutral you cannot be;
Someday your heart will be asking,
“What will He do with me?”

P.S.  I would love to hear your thoughts on this.  Direct questions and comments to pastorjeff@fromhisheart.org.