What is Truth
Series: The Gospel of John
June 18, 2025
Pastor Mike
This episode delves into the trial of Jesus before Pontius Pilate, exploring the historical context of Roman rule in Judea and the significance of the question "What is truth?" The message examines the character of Pilate, his reputation for brutality, and the complex dynamics between Roman authority and Jewish religious practices during this pivotal moment in Christian history. Key Points: Examination of Jesus' trial before Pontius Pilate Historical background on Pilate and Roman governance in Judea The tension between Roman rule and Jewish religious customs Pilate's reputation for brutality and his documented atrocities against the Jews The central question of the trial: "What is truth?"
Episode Notes
Here's a 5-day Bible reading plan and devotional guide based on the Episode
Day 1: The Search for Truth
Devotional:
s we begin this journey, we encounter Jesus standing before Pilate, the embodiment of worldly power.
In this pivotal moment, Pilate asks, "What is truth?" (John 18:38). This question echoes through time, challenging us to examine our own understanding of truth.
In a world of relative truths and shifting perspectives, Jesus stands as the unwavering source of absolute truth. Today, reflect on areas in your life where you may be compromising God's truth for worldly convenience.
How can you align your life more closely with the truth that Jesus represents?
In this pivotal moment, Pilate asks, "What is truth?" (John 18:38). This question echoes through time, challenging us to examine our own understanding of truth.
In a world of relative truths and shifting perspectives, Jesus stands as the unwavering source of absolute truth. Today, reflect on areas in your life where you may be compromising God's truth for worldly convenience.
How can you align your life more closely with the truth that Jesus represents?
Day 2: Facing Injustice with Grace
Reading: Isaiah 53:7-9
Devotional: Isaiah's prophecy about the Suffering Servant finds its fulfillment in Jesus' trial. Despite facing extreme injustice, Jesus remained silent, "like a lamb led to the slaughter" (Isaiah 53:7).
This profound display of grace under pressure challenges us to examine our own responses to unfair treatment. When we face injustice, do we react with anger and retaliation, or do we follow Christ's example of dignified silence and trust in God's ultimate justice?
Today, consider a situation where you've been treated unfairly. How can you respond with Christ-like grace?
This profound display of grace under pressure challenges us to examine our own responses to unfair treatment. When we face injustice, do we react with anger and retaliation, or do we follow Christ's example of dignified silence and trust in God's ultimate justice?
Today, consider a situation where you've been treated unfairly. How can you respond with Christ-like grace?
Day 3: The Power of God in Human Weakness
Reading: 2 Corinthians 12:9-10
Devotional: As we contemplate Jesus standing powerless before Pilate, we're reminded of Paul's words about God's strength being perfected in our weakness.
Jesus, though all-powerful, submitted to human authority, demonstrating that true strength often lies in surrender to God's will. In what areas of your life do you feel weak or powerless?
Invite God to manifest His strength in those very areas today. Remember, it's often through our vulnerabilities that God's power shines most brightly.
Jesus, though all-powerful, submitted to human authority, demonstrating that true strength often lies in surrender to God's will. In what areas of your life do you feel weak or powerless?
Invite God to manifest His strength in those very areas today. Remember, it's often through our vulnerabilities that God's power shines most brightly.
Day 4: Choosing God's Kingdom Over Worldly Power
Reading: Matthew 4:8-11
Devotional: Pilate represents worldly authority, much like the temptation Jesus faced in the wilderness when offered all the kingdoms of the world.
Yet, Jesus consistently chose obedience to God over earthly power. In our daily lives, we often face similar choices between God's ways and worldly success or acceptance.
Reflect on decisions you're currently facing. Are you prioritizing God's kingdom, or are you tempted by worldly gain? Ask for God's wisdom to make choices that honor Him, even when they don't align with worldly values.
Yet, Jesus consistently chose obedience to God over earthly power. In our daily lives, we often face similar choices between God's ways and worldly success or acceptance.
Reflect on decisions you're currently facing. Are you prioritizing God's kingdom, or are you tempted by worldly gain? Ask for God's wisdom to make choices that honor Him, even when they don't align with worldly values.
Day 5: Hope in the Midst of Suffering
Reading: Romans 8:18-25
Devotional: As we conclude our reflection on Jesus' trial, we're reminded of the suffering He endured for our sake.
Yet, this suffering wasn't the end of the story – it led to the hope of resurrection and eternal life.
Paul reminds us that our present sufferings pale in comparison to the glory that awaits us. Whatever trials you're facing today, hold onto the hope that God is working all things for good. How can you share this hope with someone who's struggling?
Let the assurance of God's ultimate victory inspire you to persevere through life's challenges with unwavering faith.
Yet, this suffering wasn't the end of the story – it led to the hope of resurrection and eternal life.
Paul reminds us that our present sufferings pale in comparison to the glory that awaits us. Whatever trials you're facing today, hold onto the hope that God is working all things for good. How can you share this hope with someone who's struggling?
Let the assurance of God's ultimate victory inspire you to persevere through life's challenges with unwavering faith.
Content Copyright Belongs to Calvary Chapel Aiken, Aiken SC
12042