The hearing before the High Priest has been an easy one for the Jews as he is in on the plot. Now they have to convince the Roman governor. We see their outward show of holiness. They did not want to make themselves ceremonially unclean, yet at the same time they have murder in their hearts. The logic of their charge is lacking and Pilate knows it. He does not want to be bothered, but they press him because otherwise they can put no one to death. Jesus is going to die. He has not be captured or betrayed; He is willingly going to die for you and for me. All of this is part of God's saving plan.
