The Jesus of Making

Who are you?

“Are you the king of the Jews?

Confronting the Jesus of Our Design

Bible Passage: Mt 27:11–26

Summary: In this passage, Jesus is brought before Pontius Pilate, facing accusations yet remaining silent, illustrating His resolve and purpose amidst injustice and the complex demands of political power. Pilate grapples with the decision of releasing Jesus or Barabbas, highlighting the human tendency to choose convenience over truth.

Application: This sermon encourages believers to reflect on their personal perceptions of Jesus and confront any misconceptions they may have based on society's expectations rather than the true character and mission of Christ. It teaches that knowing the true Jesus helps believers withstand the pressures to conform to the world.

Teaching: The sermon could teach that we, like Pilate, often confront challenging choices that reveal our true beliefs about Jesus. It emphasizes the importance of seeking the true Jesus rather than a version that aligns with our desires or societal norms.

How this passage could point to Christ: This theme highlights how Jesus, though rejected and condemned by man in His trial, is the true Savior who fulfills God's plan for redemption. His innocence amid false accusations points to His role as the Lamb of God who would take away the sin of the world, showing that He stands apart from the flawed images we create of Him.

Big Idea: The true Jesus stands as our ultimate judge and savior, challenging the distorted images we create based on convenience and societal influence.

Recommended Study: As you prepare, consider exploring the historical context of the Roman judicial system through your Logos library, particularly how Pilate's role impacts the narrative. Examine commentaries on the motivations behind the crowd's choice of Barabbas and the implications of Jesus' silence. Look for exegetical discussions on Matthew's unique portrayal of this trial to enrich your understanding of its significance in the Passion narrative.

1. Silent Sovereignty in Trial

Mt 27:11–14

You could explore how Jesus stands silently before Pilate, embodying the peace and purpose of knowing His true mission. Despite the expectations and demands of worldly powers, Jesus remains resolute, challenging us to reflect on our understanding of His character. Do we see Jesus as He truly is, or do we project our desires and beliefs onto Him? This point serves as a reminder to seek the authentic Christ amid societal pressures.

2. Choice of Convenience

Mt 27:15–21

Perhaps examine the choice presented between Jesus and Barabbas, symbolizing the world's tendency to choose convenience over truth. This moment reveals our inclination to mold Jesus into what aligns with our preferences. It challenges us to confront the 'Jesus of our making' and recognize the Christ who stands apart from such distortions. By understanding this choice, we can align our lives with Christ's true nature rather than a comfortable illusion.

3. Conformity’s Consequence

Mt 27:22–26

Maybe discuss Pilate washing his hands, representing an attempt to evade personal responsibility for rejecting the true Jesus. This action highlights the danger of conforming to societal influences rather than standing firm in truth. We must consider how we each respond to Jesus' lordship and challenge the misconceptions we hold. It encourages a commitment to the genuine teachings of Christ amid the pressures of conformity.

6432 Jesus Christ reveals, not an embarrassed God, not a confused God, not a God who stands apart from the problems, but one who stands in the thick of the whole thing.

Oswald Chambers (Lecturer and Missionary)