July 18th | Mark 15

The opening verses of Mark 15 set the scene for the brutal and agonizing death of Jesus. Our Lord had been carried before Pilate by the chief priests and scribes. They accused him of many things (v.3) and brought charges against Jesus. They had Him on trial and were seeking a conviction. But Pilate was not convinced. He wanted to hear from Jesus himself. Yet, no words came. 

Mark 15:4-5, “4 And Pilate again asked him, “Have you no answer to make? See how many charges they bring against you.” 5 But Jesus made no further answer, so that Pilate was amazed.” 

Jesus was silent. He was doing the will of the Father by going to the cross. But while Jesus was silent, there was a crowd of Pharisees and religious elites who were calling for His death. They were so blinded by their own hubris and sin that they called for a murderer, Barabbas, to be released instead of Jesus. 

Mark 15:13-15, “And they cried out again, 'Crucify him.” 14 And Pilate said to them, “Why? What evil has he done?” But they shouted all the more, “Crucify him.” 15 So Pilate, wishing to satisfy the crowd, released for them Barabbas, and having scourged Jesus, he delivered him to be crucified.” 

Do you see the contrast? A silent Lord willing to undergo great evils to save many, and a loud crowd of religious elites seeking to cling to the little power they wielded. We might see these men as evil, but how many times in our own lives would we rather crucify Christ than crucify our pride? We would rather say crucify Jesus than surrender to His will and plan for our lives. 

Christ has taken up His cross for you and me, but the question is, will you take up your cross and follow Christ? Jesus willingly bore the wrath of God and offers forgiveness of sins through His blood. Don’t cry out against Jesus anymore, but submit to Him, treasure the gift of salvation, and take up your cross today.