John 18 Commentary
Chapter 18 hosts Pilate’s timeless statement: “What is truth?” He didn’t even wait for an answer. There is never anything like truth, he must have reckoned. It was a desperate statement that represented humanity’s futile search for truth. No one ever finds it. Pilate isn’t looking for truth but simply voicing out his frustration.
“Who is it you want?” It is yet another face-off. Our curiosity takes us back to the first encounter between humanity and Lucifer. Yes, it was in another Garden – Eden. “Let these men go,” Jesus ordered. Let them be free. Leave them alone. This battle shall be between me and you. Thus, Jesus fights our battle.
Jesus temporarily forgets the rules of the battle. He uses the “I am” surname; the opponent stands no chance. They draw back and fall to the ground. Remember how the serpent was consigned to crawl on the ground as his punishment in Genesis 3!
Simon Peter is ordered to put down his sword. These are no battles for swords. It isn’t in his place to fight this battle. Jesus’ kingdom isn’t one for swords. Pilate is amply reminded of the nature of Jesus’ kingdom. It isn’t of this world. It is from another place.
The Servant of Isaiah 53 must be stricken – punished for our transgressions. We fully understand when the High Priest’s servant slaps.
This process achieves salvation for humanity. Lucifer has no idea. His subjects have no clue. The punishment they inflict on Jesus brings us healing!
Peter’s first, second, and third denials are itemized to underline humanity’s rejection of Jesus. We are not in a position to understand let alone defend the cross by our own power. It is easier to be a disciple of a miracle-working Jesus. The one on the cross? Logic says no; it is foolishness. It remains foolishness until the Spirit works on your heart!
It is Passover time. The Passover lamb must be slaughtered. The Lamb of God must be slaughtered. We understand.
Barabbas must go free. The insurrectionists must be set free. The sinner must find his freedom by the death of the innocent. We understand. And we are grateful.
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