Lord’s Day 15
Q38. Why did he suffer under Pontius Pilate as judge?
So that he, though he was innocent, would be condemned by an earthly judge, and so free us from the terrible judgment of God that was hanging over us.
Scripture Proofs — King James Version
Luke 23:13–24
John 19:4, 13–16
Isaiah 53:4–5
2 Corinthians 5:21
“For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.”
Galatians 3:13
“Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree.”
Parent Guide
Discuss this question together
Discussion Questions
- 1
Who was Pontius Pilate, and what did he do to Jesus?
- 2
Why does it matter that an earthly judge condemned Jesus even though he was innocent?
- 3
How does Jesus' unfair trial set you free from God's judgment?
Illustration
Imagine a courtroom where an innocent older brother stands up and says, "Punish me instead of my younger brother." The judge agrees, and the younger brother goes free. Jesus stood before Pilate and took a guilty verdict so that you would never face God's courtroom alone.
Application
When you feel guilty about something you have done wrong, confess it to God and remember that Jesus already stood condemned in your place. His verdict means your case is settled.