Sermon for April 1, 2012 - Two Parts - Matthew 26:69

Matthew 6:9-13 - After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.

The Sermon for this week is in two parts:

1. Peter’s Denial Of Jesus - Matthew 26:69-75

2. They Led Him Away - Matthew 27:1-2

Part 1 - Peter’s Denial Of Jesus - Matthew 26:69-75 - Now Peter sat without in the palace: and a damsel came unto him, saying, Thou also wast with Jesus of Galilee. But he denied before them all, saying, I know not what thou sayest. And when he was gone out into the porch, another maid saw him, and said unto them that were there, This fellow was also with Jesus of Nazareth. And again he denied with an oath, I do not know the man. And after a while came unto him they that stood by, and said to Peter, Surely thou also art one of them; for thy speech bewrayeth thee. Then began he to curse and to swear, saying, I know not the man. And immediately the cock crew. And Peter remembered the word of Jesus, which said unto him, Before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice. And he went out, and wept bitterly.

INTRODUCTION

1. Among the things Jesus suffered, was the indignity of Peter’s denial...

a. Three times, with increasing intensity, Peter denied knowing Jesus - Matthew 26:69-75 - SEE ABOVE

b. Peter denied knowing Jesus, despite being with Jesus:

1) From the beginning of His earthly ministry - Matthew 4:17-19 - From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. And Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two brethren, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers. And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.

2) At the healing of his own mother-in-law - Matthew 8:14-15 - And when Jesus was come into Peter's house, he saw his wife's mother laid, and sick of a fever. And he touched her hand, and the fever left her: and she arose, and ministered unto them.

3) On the Sea of Galilee, walking on the water - Matthew 14:22-33 - And straightway Jesus constrained his disciples to get into a ship, and to go before him unto the other side, while he sent the multitudes away. And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray: and when the evening was come, he was there alone. But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves: for the wind was contrary. And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea. And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear. But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid. And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water. And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus. But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me. And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt? And when they were come into the ship, the wind ceased. Then they that were in the ship came and worshipped him, saying, Of a truth thou art the Son of God.

4) On the mount, seeing Jesus with Moses and Elijah - Matthew 17:1-13 - And after six days Jesus taketh Peter, James, and John his brother, and bringeth them up into an high mountain apart, And was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light. And, behold, there appeared unto them Moses and Elias talking with him. Then answered Peter, and said unto Jesus, Lord, it is good for us to be here: if thou wilt, let us make here three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias. While he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him. And when the disciples heard it, they fell on their face, and were sore afraid. And Jesus came and touched them, and said, Arise, and be not afraid. And when they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no man, save Jesus only. And as they came down from the mountain, Jesus charged them, saying, Tell the vision to no man, until the Son of man be risen again from the dead. And his disciples asked him, saying, Why then say the scribes that Elias must first come? And Jesus answered and said unto them, Elias truly shall first come, and restore all things. But I say unto you, That Elias is come already, and they knew him not, but have done unto him whatsoever they listed. Likewise shall also the Son of man suffer of them. Then the disciples understood that he spake unto them of John the Baptist.

2. How did Peter come to deny his Lord and Savior?

a. What forces were at work, that led to his cowardly deed?

b. Might they be forces we face today, encouraging us to do the same?

[From “Peter’s Denial Of Jesus”, there are important lessons to be gleaned. Indeed, Peter himself can help us to avoid making the mistakes he made when he writes as one who knows the dangers before us. For example, we note first of all that...]

I. PETER WAS BETRAYED BY PRIDE

A. HE BOASTED HE WOULD NEVER DENY JESUS...

1. Proudly proclaiming that even if all left Jesus, not him! - Matthew 26:31-33 - Then saith Jesus unto them, All ye shall be offended because of me this night: for it is written, I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock shall be scattered abroad. But after I am risen again, I will go before you into Galilee. Peter answered and said unto him, Though all men shall be offended because of thee, yet will I never be offended.

2. In so doing, Peter took the first step in falling away - Proverbs 16:18 - Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.

3. We can also be overconfident in our service to God - cf. 1 Corinthian 10:12 - Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.

B. PETER LATER COMMANDED HUMILITY...

1. To be clothed with humility - 1 Peter 5:5 - Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.

2. To humble ourselves before God - 1 Peter 5:6 - Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:

[Peter learned the hard way about the danger of pride. Will we learn from the mistake of Peter, and value the importance of humility? Next, notice that...]

II. PETER WAS BESIEGED BY LAZINESS

A. HE KEPT FALLING ASLEEP...

1. At a time when he needed to be watchful - Matthew 26:36-46 - Then cometh Jesus with them unto a place called Gethsemane, and saith unto the disciples, Sit ye here, while I go and pray yonder. And he took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to be sorrowful and very heavy. Then saith he unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death: tarry ye here, and watch with me. And he went a little further, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt. And he cometh unto the disciples, and findeth them asleep, and saith unto Peter, What, could ye not watch with me one hour? Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. He went away again the second time, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if this cup may not pass away from me, except I drink it, thy will be done. And he came and found them asleep again: for their eyes were heavy. And he left them, and went away again, and prayed the third time, saying the same words. Then cometh he to his disciples, and saith unto them, Sleep on now, and take your rest: behold, the hour is at hand, and the Son of man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. Rise, let us be going: behold, he is at hand that doth betray me.

2. His laziness therefore led to lack of preparation

3. The same thing can happen to us!

a. Without diligent preparation, we too can be unprepared - cf. Luke 21:34-36 -And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares. For as a snare shall it come on all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth. Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man.

b. More often than not, we gradually “drift away” because we are too lazy to “give the more earnest heed” - cf. Hebrews 2:1-3 - Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip. For if the word spoken by angels was stedfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just recompence of reward; How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him;

B. PETER LATER ENJOINED DILIGENCE...

1. Commanding vigilant resistance against the devil - 1 Peter 5:8-9 - Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.

2. Calling for diligence that we might:

a. Grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus - 2 Peter 1:5 - And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; - 2 Peter 1:10 - Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall:

b. Be found in peace, without spot and blameless - 2 Peter 3:14 - Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless.

[Do we allow simple laziness to keep us from careful preparation? Do we fail to attend services, study God’s Word, or even pray, because of laziness? If so, how can we hope to stand up for Jesus when put to the test? As we continue, we observe that...]

III. PETER WAS BESET BY COWARDICE

A. HE FOLLOWED JESUS AT A DISTANCE...

1. Peter still followed Jesus - Matthew 26:58 - But Peter followed him afar off unto the high priest's palace, and went in, and sat with the servants, to see the end.

2. But now that Jesus was unpopular...

a. He stays far enough away so not to be identified with Him

b. He was unprepared to face the challenge of ridicule and persecution

3. Might we be guilty trying to follow Jesus, but with cowardice?

a. Ashamed to be seen carrying a Bible?

b. Ashamed to be seen giving thanks?

c. Ashamed to be seen with other Christians?

B. PETER LATER EXHORTED GLORIFYING GOD...

1. Charging us not to be ashamed, but to glorify God - 1 Peter 4:16 - Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf.

2. Thinking not of what things mean to us, but what they mean to God! - cf. Matthew 5:16 - Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

[With cowardice keeping him at a distance from his Lord, Peter was a prime candidate for succumbing to what came next...]

IV. PETER WAS BELEAGUERED BY WORLDLINESS

A. HE WAS INFLUENCED BY THE WORLD...

1. By sitting with the servants of the High Priest, and warming himself by their fire - Matthew 26:58 - But Peter followed him afar off unto the high priest's palace, and went in, and sat with the servants, to see the end.; Mark 14:54 - And Peter followed him afar off, even into the palace of the high priest: and he sat with the servants, and warmed himself at the fire.

2. Ashamed to be seen with Christ, it was easy to mingle with those of the world and enjoy their comforts

3. But one cannot be “comforted by the fire” of the world, and not be “burned”!

a. E.g., close contact with things that can harm has an effect - cf. Proverbs 6:27-29 - Can a man take fire in his bosom, and his clothes not be burned? Can one go upon hot coals, and his feet not be burned? So he that goeth in to his neighbour's wife; whosoever toucheth her shall not be innocent.

b. So we cannot flirt with the world and walk away untouched - 1 Corinthian 15:33 - Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners.

B. PETER LATER CALLED FOR US TO BE OTHERWORLDLY...

1. To live as sojourners and pilgrims, abstaining from fleshly lusts and with honorable conduct among the nations - 1 Peter 2:11-12 - Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul; Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation.

2. To look for that new heavens and new earth, being diligent to be found by Christ in peace, without spot and blameless - 2 Peter 3:13-14 - Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness. Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless.

CONCLUSION

1. When Peter concluded his second epistle, he did so with a warning...

a. To beware lest you fall from your own steadfastness - 2 Peter 3:17 - Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own stedfastness.

b. To grow in the grace and knowledge of Christ - 2 Peter 3:18 - But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.

2. These admonitions come from one who was well qualified to speak...

a. For he knew how easy it was to fall through such things as:

1) Pride

2) Laziness

3) Cowardice

4) Worldliness

b. But he also knew how one could grow in grace through such things as:

1) Humility

2) Diligence

3) Glorifying God

4) Living as strangers and sojourners

Yes, we know that Peter, though he denied Jesus three times and wept bitterly, received grace when forgiven by Jesus and permitted to fulfill his role as an apostle. If we have been guilty of letting our Lord down, look to Him for the grace to repent and grow that only He can bestow!

Part 2 - They Led Him Away - Matthew 27:1-2 - When the morning was come, all the chief priests and elders of the people took counsel against Jesus to put him to death: And when they had bound him, they led him away, and delivered him to Pontius Pilate the governor.

INTRODUCTION

1. In the night and hours prior to His crucifixion, the Son of God suffered many ignobilities...

a. Illegal trials held during the night

b. Shuffled back and forth before different authorities

c. Falsely accused, mocked, and physically abused

2. There is a phrase used several times that may be used to summarize this ill treatment...

a. That phrase is “they led Him away”

b. It (or a variation) is found eight times - Matthew 26:57 - And they that had laid hold on Jesus led him away to Caiaphas the high priest, where the scribes and the elders were assembled.; Matthew 27:2 - And when they had bound him, they led him away, and delivered him to Pontius Pilate the governor. - Matthew 27:31 - And after that they had mocked him, they took the robe off from him, and put his own raiment on him, and led him away to crucify him.; Mark 15:1 - And straightway in the morning the chief priests held a consultation with the elders and scribes and the whole council, and bound Jesus, and carried him away, and delivered him to Pilate. - Mark 15:16 - And the soldiers led him away into the hall, called Praetorium; and they call together the whole band.; Luke 23:26 - And as they led him away, they laid hold upon one Simon, a Cyrenian, coming out of the country, and on him they laid the cross, that he might bear it after Jesus.; John 18:13 - And led him away to Annas first; for he was father in law to Caiaphas, which was the high priest that same year.; John 19:16 - Then delivered he him therefore unto them to be crucified. And they took Jesus, and led him away.

3. Being led around like this was in fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy: - Isaiah 53:7 - He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth: he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so he openeth not his mouth.

[To remind us of the things Jesus suffered in our stead and for our sins, let’s review how Jesus was led around during that fateful night and the morning that followed...]

I. THEY LED HIM AWAY TO FACE ANNAS

A. ANNAS, FATHER-IN-LAW TO CAIAPHAS...

1. John records this meeting in his gospel - John 18:12-14 - Then the band and the captain and officers of the Jews took Jesus, and bound him, And led him away to Annas first; for he was father in law to Caiaphas, which was the high priest that same year. Now Caiaphas was he, which gave counsel to the Jews, that it was expedient that one man should die for the people.

2. Annas had been high priest, but was deposed in 15 A.D. by Roman authorities

3. He continued to exercise considerable influence, as he was still viewed by the Jews as a high priest - Luke 3:2 - Annas and Caiaphas being the high priests, the word of God came unto John the son of Zacharias in the wilderness.; John 11:49-50 - And one of them, named Caiaphas, being the high priest that same year, said unto them, Ye know nothing at all, Nor consider that it is expedient for us, that one man should die for the people, and that the whole nation perish not.

4. After Pentecost he was involved in the questioning of Peter and John - Acts 4:6 - And Annas the high priest, and Caiaphas, and John, and Alexander, and as many as were of the kindred of the high priest, were gathered together at Jerusalem.

B. BEFORE ANNAS...

1. Jesus was asked about His disciples and His doctrine - John 18:19-21 - The high priest then asked Jesus of his disciples, and of his doctrine. Jesus answered him, I spake openly to the world; I ever taught in the synagogue, and in the temple, whither the Jews always resort; and in secret have I said nothing. Why askest thou me? ask them which heard me, what I have said unto them: behold, they know what I said.

2. Jesus was struck by one of the officers - John 18:22-23 - And when he had thus spoken, one of the officers which stood by struck Jesus with the palm of his hand, saying, Answerest thou the high priest so? Jesus answered him, If I have spoken evil, bear witness of the evil: but if well, why smitest thou me?

3. At this point, Annas sent Jesus bound to Caiaphas - John 18:24 - Now Annas had sent him bound unto Caiaphas the high priest.

[As we return to the gospel of Matthew, we read of how...]

II. THEY LED HIM AWAY TO FACE CAIAPHAS

A. CAIAPHAS, THE HIGH PRIEST...

1. It was Caiaphas who with others plotted the arrest and death of Jesus - Matthew 26:3-5 - Then assembled together the chief priests, and the scribes, and the elders of the people, unto the palace of the high priest, who was called Caiaphas, And consulted that they might take Jesus by subtilty, and kill him. But they said, Not on the feast day, lest there be an uproar among the people.

2. He also was involved in the later questioning of Peter and John - Acts 4:6 - And Annas the high priest, and Caiaphas, and John, and Alexander, and as many as were of the kindred of the high priest, were gathered together at Jerusalem.

B. BEFORE CAIAPHAS...

1. Jesus faced an assembly of scribes and elders - Matthew 26:57 - And they that had laid hold on Jesus led him away to Caiaphas the high priest, where the scribes and the elders were assembled.

a. This was an illegal assembly of the Sanhedrin (high council of the Jews)

b. It was illegal for taking place at night

2. False witnesses were finally brought against Jesus - Matthew 26:59-61 - Now the chief priests, and elders, and all the council, sought false witness against Jesus, to put him to death; But found none: yea, though many false witnesses came, yet found they none. At the last came two false witnesses, And said, This fellow said, I am able to destroy the temple of God, and to build it in three days.

3. Jesus first kept silent, then told them of His coming in judgment - Matthew 26:62-64 - And the high priest arose, and said unto him, Answerest thou nothing? what is it which these witness against thee? But Jesus held his peace. And the high priest answered and said unto him, I adjure thee by the living God, that thou tell us whether thou be the Christ, the Son of God. Jesus saith unto him, Thou hast said: nevertheless I say unto you, Hereafter shall ye see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven.

4. In anger Caiaphas tears his clothes, and accuses Jesus of blasphemy - Matthew 26:65 - Then the high priest rent his clothes, saying, He hath spoken blasphemy; what further need have we of witnesses? behold, now ye have heard his blasphemy.

5. Jesus is pronounced worthy of death - Matthew 26:66 - What think ye? They answered and said, He is guilty of death.

6. He is spat in the face, beaten, slapped, and mocked as the Messiah - Matthew 26:67-68 - Then did they spit in his face, and buffeted him; and others smote him with the palms of their hands, Saying, Prophesy unto us, thou Christ, Who is he that smote thee?

[Meanwhile, Peter is denying Jesus three times in the courtyard (Matthew 26:69-75 - Now Peter sat without in the palace: and a damsel came unto him, saying, Thou also wast with Jesus of Galilee. But he denied before them all, saying, I know not what thou sayest. And when he was gone out into the porch, another maid saw him, and said unto them that were there, This fellow was also with Jesus of Nazareth. And again he denied with an oath, I do not know the man. And after a while came unto him they that stood by, and said to Peter, Surely thou also art one of them; for thy speech bewrayeth thee. Then began he to curse and to swear, saying, I know not the man. And immediately the cock crew. And Peter remembered the word of Jesus, which said unto him, Before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice. And he went out, and wept bitterly.). With the dawn of morning, the chief priests and elders decide to put Jesus to death (Matthew 27:1 - When the morning was come, all the chief priests and elders of the people took counsel against Jesus to put him to death:). To do this...]

III. THEY LED HIM AWAY TO FACE PILATE

A. PONTIUS PILATE, THE ROMAN GOVERNOR...

1. To whom Jesus was bound and delivered - Matthew 27:2 - And when they had bound him, they led him away, and delivered him to Pontius Pilate the governor.

2. He governed Judea from 26-36 A.D.

3. He did much to anger the Jews - cf. Luke 13:1 - There were present at that season some that told him of the Galilaeans, whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices.

4. But without his approval, the Jews could not execute Jesus

B. BEFORE PILATE...

1. Jesus was asked if He was the king of the Jews - Matthew 27:11 - And Jesus stood before the governor: and the governor asked him, saying, Art thou the King of the Jews? And Jesus said unto him, Thou sayest.

a. Because Jesus was accused of forbidding to pay taxes and claiming to be a king - cf. Luke 23:1-2 - And the whole multitude of them arose, and led him unto Pilate. And they began to accuse him, saying, We found this fellow perverting the nation, and forbidding to give tribute to Caesar, saying that he himself is Christ a King.

b. Jesus did not reply to the accusations of the Jews - Matthew 27:12-14 - And when he was accused of the chief priests and elders, he answered nothing. Then said Pilate unto him, Hearest thou not how many things they witness against thee? And he answered him to never a word; insomuch that the governor marvelled greatly.

c. But He did converse with Pilate about the nature of His kingdom - John 18:33-38 - Then Pilate entered into the judgment hall again, and called Jesus, and said unto him, Art thou the King of the Jews? Jesus answered him, Sayest thou this thing of thyself, or did others tell it thee of me? Pilate answered, Am I a Jew? Thine own nation and the chief priests have delivered thee unto me: what hast thou done? Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews: but now is my kingdom not from hence. Pilate therefore said unto him, Art thou a king then? Jesus answered, Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice. Pilate saith unto him, What is truth? And when he had said this, he went out again unto the Jews, and saith unto them, I find in him no fault at all.

2. Pilate found no fault in Him - cf. Luke 23:4 - Then said Pilate to the chief priests and to the people, I find no fault in this man.

3. But Jesus was accused further of stirring up people throughout all Judea, beginning from Galilee - cf. Luke 23:5 - And they were the more fierce, saying, He stirreth up the people, teaching throughout all Jewry, beginning from Galilee to this place.

[With the mention of Galilee, Pilate thought he had a way to pawn Jesus off on to someone else (Luke 23:6-7 - When Pilate heard of Galilee, he asked whether the man were a Galilaean. And as soon as he knew that he belonged unto Herod's jurisdiction, he sent him to Herod, who himself also was at Jerusalem at that time.). And from Luke’s account we learn that...]

IV. THEY LED HIM AWAY TO FACE HEROD

A. HEROD, KING OF THE JEWS...

1. This was Herod Antipas, son of Herod the Great

a. His father was the Herod who massacred the infants - Matthew 2:16-18 - Then Herod, when he saw that he was mocked of the wise men, was exceeding wroth, and sent forth, and slew all the children that were in Bethlehem, and in all the coasts thereof, from two years old and under, according to the time which he had diligently enquired of the wise men. Then was fulfilled that which was spoken by Jeremy the prophet, saying, In Rama was there a voice heard, lamentation, and weeping, and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children, and would not be comforted, because they are not.

b. Antipas was the one who beheaded John the Baptist - Matthew 14:1-12 - At that time Herod the tetrarch heard of the fame of Jesus, And said unto his servants, This is John the Baptist; he is risen from the dead; and therefore mighty works do shew forth themselves in him. For Herod had laid hold on John, and bound him, and put him in prison for Herodias' sake, his brother Philip's wife. For John said unto him, It is not lawful for thee to have her. And when he would have put him to death, he feared the multitude, because they counted him as a prophet. But when Herod's birthday was kept, the daughter of Herodias danced before them, and pleased Herod. Whereupon he promised with an oath to give her whatsoever she would ask. And she, being before instructed of her mother, said, Give me here John Baptist's head in a charger. And the king was sorry: nevertheless for the oath's sake, and them which sat with him at meat, he commanded it to be given her. And he sent, and beheaded John in the prison. And his head was brought in a charger, and given to the damsel: and she brought it to her mother. And his disciples came, and took up the body, and buried it, and went and told Jesus.

c. He was tetrarch over Galilee and Perea from 4 B.C. to 39 A. D. - Luke 3:1 - Now in the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, Pontius Pilate being governor of Judaea, and Herod being tetrarch of Galilee, and his brother Philip tetrarch of Ituraea and of the region of Trachonitis, and Lysanias the tetrarch of Abilene,

2. Herod was glad to see Jesus - Luke 23:8 - And when Herod saw Jesus, he was exceeding glad: for he was desirous to see him of a long season, because he had heard many things of him; and he hoped to have seen some miracle done by him.

a. He had heard many things about Jesus - cf. Luke 9:7-9 - Now Herod the tetrarch heard of all that was done by him: and he was perplexed, because that it was said of some, that John was risen from the dead; And of some, that Elias had appeared; and of others, that one of the old prophets was risen again. And Herod said, John have I beheaded: but who is this, of whom I hear such things? And he desired to see him.

b. He hoped to see some miracle done by Jesus

B. BEFORE HEROD...

1. Jesus was questioned, but answered Herod nothing - Luke 23:9 - Then he questioned with him in many words; but he answered him nothing.

2. Jesus was vehemently accused by the chief priests and scribes - Luke 23:10 - And the chief priests and scribes stood and vehemently accused him.

3. Jesus was treated with contempt and mocked by Herod and his soldiers - Luke 23:11 - And Herod with his men of war set him at nought, and mocked him, and arrayed him in a gorgeous robe, and sent him again to Pilate.

[Arrayed in a gorgeous robe mocking His claim to be King, Jesus was then sent back to Pilate (Luke 23:11-12 - And Herod with his men of war set him at nought, and mocked him, and arrayed him in a gorgeous robe, and sent him again to Pilate. And the same day Pilate and Herod were made friends together: for before they were at enmity between themselves.). And so...]

V. THEY LED HIM AWAY TO FACE PILATE (AGAIN)

A. PILATE SOUGHT TO RELEASE HIM...

1. Using the custom of releasing one prisoner during the feast - Matthew 27:15 - Now at that feast the governor was wont to release unto the people a prisoner, whom they would.; John 18:38-39 - Pilate saith unto him, What is truth? And when he had said this, he went out again unto the Jews, and saith unto them, I find in him no fault at all. But ye have a custom, that I should release unto you one at the passover: will ye therefore that I release unto you the King of the Jews?

a. Offering a choice between Jesus and Barabbas - Matthew 27:16-18 - And they had then a notable prisoner, called Barabbas. Therefore when they were gathered together, Pilate said unto them, Whom will ye that I release unto you? Barabbas, or Jesus which is called Christ? For he knew that for envy they had delivered him.

b. The latter a notorious prisoner, who was a robber, rebel and murderer - Mark 15:7 - And there was one named Barabbas, which lay bound with them that had made insurrection with him, who had committed murder in the insurrection.

2. Encouraged by his wife to have nothing to do with Jesus - Matthew 27:19 - When he was set down on the judgment seat, his wife sent unto him, saying, Have thou nothing to do with that just man: for I have suffered many things this day in a dream because of him.

B. BEFORE PILATE (AGAIN)...

1. The chief priests and elders persuaded the multitude to ask for Barabbas and to have Jesus crucified - Matthew 27:20-23 - But the chief priests and elders persuaded the multitude that they should ask Barabbas, and destroy Jesus. The governor answered and said unto them, Whether of the twain will ye that I release unto you? They said, Barabbas. Pilate saith unto them, What shall I do then with Jesus which is called Christ? They all say unto him, Let him be crucified. And the governor said, Why, what evil hath he done? But they cried out the more, saying, Let him be crucified.

2. Bowing to the multitude, Pilate succumbed to their wishes - Matthew 27:24-25 - When Pilate saw that he could prevail nothing, but that rather a tumult was made, he took water, and washed his hands before the multitude, saying, I am innocent of the blood of this just person: see ye to it. Then answered all the people, and said, His blood be on us, and on our children.

3. Jesus was then scourged - Matthew 27:26 -Then released he Barabbas unto them: and when he had scourged Jesus, he delivered him to be crucified.

[At this point Pilate delivered Jesus to be crucified (Matthew 27:26 - Then released he Barabbas unto them: and when he had scourged Jesus, he delivered him to be crucified.). But before Jesus was taken to the place called Golgotha...]

VI. THEY LED HIM AWAY TO FACE THE SOLDIERS

A. THE SOLDIERS OF THE GOVERNOR...

1. Roman soldiers, who likely had little love for any Jew

2. Who took Jesus into the Praetorium (the barracks in the governor’s house) - Matthew 27:27a - Then the soldiers of the governor took Jesus into the common hall, .

3. Surrounding Jesus with the whole garrison of soldiers - Matthew 27:27b - and gathered unto him the whole band of soldiers.

B. BEFORE THE SOLDIERS...

1. Jesus was stripped and clothed with a scarlet robe - Matthew 27:28 - And they stripped him, and put on him a scarlet robe.

2. A twisted crown of thorns placed on His head, a reed in His right hand - Matthew 27:29a - And when they had platted a crown of thorns, they put it upon his head, and a reed in his right hand:

3. The soldiers bowed the knee and mocked Him as King of the Jews - Matthew 27:29b - and they bowed the knee before him, and mocked him, saying, Hail, King of the Jews!

4. They spat on Him, and struck Him on the head with the reed - Matthew 27:30 - And they spit upon him, and took the reed, and smote him on the head.

5. When they were finished mocking Him...

a. The soldiers took off the robe and put His own clothes on Him - Matthew 27:31a - And after that they had mocked him, they took the robe off from him, and put his own raiment on him,

b. The soldiers led Him away to be crucified - Matthew 27:31b - and led him away to crucify him.

CONCLUSION

1. Up to this point, the Son of God had been...

a. Struck by officers of the high priest

b. Spat in the face, beaten, slapped, and mocked as the Messiah by the chief priests

c. Falsely accused by the chief priests and scribes before Pilate and Herod

d. Treated with contempt and mocked by Herod and his soldiers

e. Scourged by Pilate, mocked, spat upon and beaten by his soldiers

-- And then they “led Him away to be crucified”, to face the cross of Calvary

2. Why did Jesus allow Himself to be so led...?

a. At any time He could have called for twelve legions of angels - cf. Matthew 26:53 - Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to my Father, and he shall presently give me more than twelve legions of angels?

b. “They Led Him Away” only because He allowed them to do so!

c. Jesus understood that all this was necessary to fulfill Scripture - cf. Matthew 26:54 - But how then shall the scriptures be fulfilled, that thus it must be?; Luke 24:44-47 - And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me. Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures, And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.

And the purpose of the Scripture was that Jesus would die for our sins (Isaiah 53:5 - But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.). As expressed beautifully in the song “Ten Thousand Angels” by Ray Overholt:

They bound the hands of Jesus

In the garden where He prayed;

They led Him through the streets in shame.

They spat upon the Savior

So pure and free from sin;

They said “Crucify Him, He’s to blame.”

Upon His precious head

They placed a crown of thorns;

They laughed and said, “Behold the King.”

They struck Him and they cursed Him

And mocked His holy name.

All alone He suffered everything.

He could have called ten thousand angels

To destroy the world

And set Him free.

He could have called ten thousand angels

But He died alone

For you and me.

He died alone for you and me...will we not heed and obey His message of repentance and remission of sins that was first proclaimed in Jerusalem? - cf. Luke 24:46-47 - And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.; Acts 2:36-38 - Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ. Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

Matthew 28:19-20 - Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

Mark 16:15-16 - And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.

Prayer: Lord I truly thank You for giving me the opportunity to present these words to my brethrens. I pray that You will give them Your eternal blessings and accept them into Your heart - this I pray in the name of Thy Son, Jesus, the Messiah, Your only begotten son which Ye sent to save mankind from themselves. Amen

Ephesians 6:23-24 - Peace be to the brethren, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace be with all them that love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. Amen.

This sermon is in the Public Domain - Free for all to use with the only requirement: That it never be used for profit.