Pontius Pilate is a lesser-known but significant figure in the Easter story. Appointed as the fifth Roman governor of Judaea, under Emperor Tiberius Julius Caesar Augustus (referred to as Caesar), he played a crucial role in the trial and crucifixion of Jesus.
But there’s much more to the story of Pontius Pilate and Jesus. Let’s unpack who he was, and why his interaction with Jesus and ultimate decision that led to the crucifixion is so important in biblical history, and what we can learn from it today.
Pontius Pilate was a Roman governor
Pilate governed the Roman province of Judaea from around 26 to 36 AD. His main job was to maintain order and enforce Roman law, particularly in a region with strong religious tensions, like Judaea. While he had the power to execute criminals according to Roman law, he also had to balance his authority with Jewish leaders' demands. While the Jews had their own laws, they did not have the authority to crucify as the Romans did (John 18:29-31).
Pilate was involved in the trial of Jesus
The Jewish religious leaders, and Caiaphas, the high priest, held their own trial against Jesus. They falsely accused him of criminal acts because what they really wanted was to see him executed. Having no authority to do so, they brought him before Pilate, demanding a Roman crucifixion (John 18:28-32).
Pilate questioned Jesus about being the “King of the Jews” and found him to be innocent of any crime (John 18:33-37). But the persistent Jewish leaders did not give up, and they continued to pressure him. Pilate had a decision to make.
Pilate’s decision to crucify Jesus
Pilate didn't know what to do about Jesus. On one hand, he dealt with relentless pressure from the crowd and religious leaders. But on the other hand, he was warned by his wife. She had a nightmare about Jesus and begged her husband to leave him alone (Matthew 27:19).
He didn’t want to have to be the one to make a choice. So, when Pilate learned that Jesus was from Galilee, he tried to pass the responsibility to Herod Antipas, since that area was under Herod’s rule. But Herod also found Jesus innocent and sent him back (Luke 23:4-12).
Still looking for a way out, Pilate brought up a Passover tradition where one prisoner could be released. So, he gave the crowd a choice: Jesus, who he believed was innocent, or Barabbas, a known murderer. To Pilate’s surprise, the crowd chose to release Barabbas and take Jesus into custody instead (Mark 15:6-15).
The final straw came when the Jewish leaders told Pilate, “If you let this man go, you’re no friend of Caesar. Anyone who claims to be a king is a threat to Caesar” - meaning if Jesus claimed to be King of the Jews, he was threatening Caesar and his rule (John 19:12). Pilate knew this accusation could get him in trouble with Rome.
Afraid of a riot and of losing his position, Pilate gave in. He sentenced Jesus to be crucified and symbolically washed his hands, trying to show he wasn’t responsible (Matthew 27:24-26).
Pilate’s legacy
While there is little known about Pilate’s life after the death of Jesus, historical records show that Pilate was removed from his position as governor of Judaea after using violent, excessive force against Samaritans to suppress a suspected insurrection. Pilate was sent back to Rome to face Emperor Tiberius and account for his actions; however, Tiberius died before Pilate even arrived.
Some sources suggest he was later recalled to Rome and possibly committed suicide, though details are uncertain. Other historians claim he quietly retired, slinking into the background of history as a disgraced ex-magistrate.
Despite all of this, the legacy of Pontius Pilate is most remembered for is being the one who condemned Jesus to the cross, even though he recognized Jesus’ innocence.
What can we learn from Pontius Pilate?
Pilate’s life gives us some powerful cautions:
Don't give in to pressure.
Pilate knew Jesus was innocent, but he caved to pressure and had him sentenced to death anyway. As followers of Christ, we have a responsibility to pursue justice and defend those who are innocent. Culture and society are often at odds with biblical principles, yet we are called to live by Jesus’ example. When we give into the fear and pressure of society, it ultimately leads to regret.
Indecision still makes an impact.
Indecision can lead to injustice, especially when we have the chance to ask God for wisdom and the courage to act. Pilate had the authority to do what was right, but instead of taking a stand, he chose to stay neutral in a critical moment.
Sometimes we think indecision means we haven’t made a choice yet—but staying neutral is a decision in itself. And when the moment calls for courage, silence or inaction can cause real harm. God invites us to seek his wisdom and trust him as we step forward in faith, even when it’s hard.
Taking the easy way out often makes life harder.
Passing off our responsibility onto someone else might feel like an easy way out of a tough decision, but it usually makes things more complicated in the long run.
As Jesus followers, we’re called to take ownership of our choices. It’s not fair to expect others to do what we’re meant to handle just because it feels uncomfortable or difficult. Growth happens when we lean into responsibility—not away from it—and trust that God can meet us there with wisdom and strength.
“Keeping peace” isn’t the same as “making peace.”
There’s a big difference between a peacemaker and a peacekeeper. A peacekeeper tries to avoid conflict at all costs, often by staying quiet or looking the other way. But a peacemaker steps into conflict with courage, working toward a resolution that will bring lasting peace.
Pilate chose to keep the peace by avoiding hard truth—and it led to the crucifixion of an innocent man. Pilate’s story reminds us that real peace often requires courage, not comfort.
God’s plan is the best plan.
Even though Pilate gave up his authority and took the path of least resistance—even at the expense of justice— the crucifixion of Jesus was part of God’s plan to redeem and save us. Through Jesus’ death and resurrection, the price for our salvation was paid in full. What looked like defeat was actually part of God’s good plan all along —a plan to bring hope, healing, and new life into the world. (Isaiah 53:3-6, John 3:16-17)
-----
Interested in learning more interesting facts about the Easter story? Check these out!
-----
LCBC stands for Lives Changed By Christ. We are one church in multiple locations across Pennsylvania. Find the location closest to you or join us for Church Online. We can’t wait to connect with you!