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John 19:11
Verse
Context
The Soldiers Mock Jesus
10So Pilate said to Him, “Do You refuse to speak to me? Do You not know that I have authority to release You and authority to crucify You?”11Jesus answered, “You would have no authority over Me if it were not given to you from above. Therefore the one who handed Me over to you is guilty of greater sin.”
Sermons





Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Hath the greater sin - It is a sin in thee to condemn me, while thou art convinced in thy conscience that I am innocent: but the Jews who delivered me to thee, and Judas who delivered me to the Jews, have the greater crime to answer for. Thy ignorance in some measure excuses thee; but the rage and malice of the Jews put them at present out of the reach of mercy.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Thou couldest--rather, "shouldst." have no power at all against me--neither to crucify nor to release, nor to do anything whatever against Me [BENGEL]. except it were--"unless it had been." given thee from above--that is, "Thou thinkest too much of thy power, Pilate: against Me that power is none, save what is meted out to thee by special divine appointment, for a special end." therefore he that delivered me unto thee--Caiaphas, too wit--but he only as representing the Jewish authorities as a body. hath the greater sin--as having better opportunities and more knowledge of such matters.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Jesus answered,.... With great intrepidity and courage, with freedom and boldness, as being not at all dismayed with his threatenings, or affected with his proud boasts, and in order to expose the vanity of them: thou couldst have no power at all against me, except it were given thee from above: meaning, not from the Jewish sanhedrim, whose court of judicature was in the temple, which was higher than the other part of the city; nor from the Roman emperor, or senate of Rome, the higher powers; by whom Pilate was made governor of Judea, and a judge in all causes relating to life and death; but reference is had to the place from whence he came, and to the decree and council of God above, and the agreement between the eternal three in heaven. Christ speaks of a power he had against him, that is, of taking away his life; he had no lawful power to do it at all; nor any power, right or wrong, had it not been given him by God: and which is to be ascribed, not merely to the general providence of God, without which nothing is done in this world; but to the determinate counsel of God, relating to this particular action of the crucifying of Christ; otherwise Christ, as God, could have struck Pilate his judge with death immediately, and without so doing could as easily have escaped out of his hands, as he had sometimes done out of the hands of the Jews; and, as man and Mediator, he could have prayed to his Father for, and have had, more than twelve legions of angels, which would soon have rescued him: but this was not to be; power was given to Pilate from heaven against him; not for any evil he himself had committed, or merely to gratify the envy and malice of the Jews, but for the salvation of God's elect, and for the glorifying of the divine perfections: and to this the Jews themselves agree in general, "that all the things of this world depend on above; and when they agree above first, (they say (s),) they agree below; and that there is no power below, until that , "power is given from above"; and the whole of that depends on this:'' therefore he that delivered me unto thee, hath the greater sin; , "than thine", as the Syriac version adds; and to the same purpose the Persic. Pilate had been guilty of sin already in scourging Christ, and suffering the Roman soldiers to abuse him; and would be guilty of a greater in delivering him up to be crucified, who he knew was innocent: but the sin of Judas in delivering him into the hands of the chief priests and elders, and of the chief priest and elders and people of the Jews, in delivering him to Pilate to crucify him, according to the Roman manner, were greater, inasmuch as theirs proceeded from malice and envy, and was done against greater light and knowledge; for by his works, miracles, and ministry, as well as by their own prophecies, they might, or must have known, that he was the Messiah, and Son of God: and it is to be observed, that as there is a difference in sin, and that all sins are not equal, the circumstances of things making an alteration; so that God's decree concerning the delivery of his Son into the hands of sinful men, does not excuse the sin of the betrayers of him. (s) Zohar in Gen. fol. 99. 1.
John 19:11
The Soldiers Mock Jesus
10So Pilate said to Him, “Do You refuse to speak to me? Do You not know that I have authority to release You and authority to crucify You?”11Jesus answered, “You would have no authority over Me if it were not given to you from above. Therefore the one who handed Me over to you is guilty of greater sin.”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(The Last Days) Faith That Overcomes Fear
By Zac Poonen3.4K59:22GEN 5:24ISA 54:17MAL 4:5MAT 24:6JHN 19:11This sermon emphasizes the importance of being prepared for the future, focusing on the significance of prophecy in directing and guiding people. It highlights the need to walk with God, preach against sin, and be fearless in the face of trials and persecution. The message encourages believers to trust in God's protection, live with eternity in view, and be filled with the Holy Spirit to face the challenges of the last days.
The Remnant People of God
By Art Katz3.0K1:14:10Remnant People of GodPSA 119:11ISA 53:3MAT 5:17JHN 19:11ACT 5:41PHP 3:10REV 12:12In this sermon, the speaker addresses a faithful congregation and expresses gratitude for their presence. He mentions that these nights have been unusual and significant, as something important is being formed and birthed among them. The speaker emphasizes the need for a comprehensive worldview, one that takes into account eternity and aligns with God's perception of reality as stated in Scripture. He discusses the affliction faced by the righteous and the eventual overcoming of evil through God's direct intervention. The sermon concludes with the encouragement for believers to have a confident expectation of an eternal reward, which sustains them in times of oppression and persecution.
The Appearing of Resurrection and the Giving of Power
By Newman Sze8201:22:11MAT 28:1MAT 28:19MRK 16:15LUK 24:44JHN 20:19JHN 21:25In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of the 40 days that Jesus spent on earth after His resurrection. He explains that during this time, Jesus trained His disciples to shift their focus from external things to internal revelation, from the flesh to the Holy Spirit, and from the law to life. The speaker shares a personal anecdote about a turbulent airplane ride to illustrate the need for Christians to rise above fear and rely on the Holy Spirit. He concludes by urging the audience to prioritize their personal encounter with the Lord and the experience of being filled with the Holy Spirit.
The God of the Bible vs. the God of Today 2 of 2
By Rolfe Barnard79324:33GEN 20:61KI 19:4JER 7:31MAT 9:9MAT 10:28JHN 19:11REV 21:27In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of recognizing God's mercy and the need to accept Jesus Christ as our Savior. He highlights that God holds the power over life and death in His hands, and it is crucial for people to understand this truth. The preacher also emphasizes the significance of acknowledging our sinfulness and the need for salvation through Jesus' sacrifice on the cross. He concludes by emphasizing the importance of faith in Jesus and the assurance of eternal life in heaven for those who believe in Him.
(Through the Bible) John - Part 2
By Zac Poonen51357:37MRK 8:34JHN 6:38JHN 13:34JHN 14:16JHN 17:3JHN 17:23JHN 19:11JHN 20:11JHN 21:18This sermon delves into the profound teachings and interactions found in the Gospel of John, highlighting key moments such as Jesus' purpose on earth, the significance of denying one's will, the importance of surrendering to God, the power of the Holy Spirit, and the essence of true love and humility. It emphasizes the need to come to a zero point, to die to self, and to follow Jesus wholeheartedly, focusing on eternal life, the new creation, and the transformative work of the Holy Spirit in believers' lives.
The Spirit of Praise and Holiness
By Zac Poonen0Praise and HolinessSpiritual Warfare2CH 20:12PSA 23:1PSA 106:12JHN 19:11ROM 8:8HEB 2:12JAS 1:5REV 19:10Zac Poonen emphasizes the power of prayer and praise in spiritual warfare, using King Jehoshaphat's example from 2 Chronicles 20. When faced with overwhelming enemies, Jehoshaphat led Judah in fasting and prayer, acknowledging their weakness and placing their trust in God. His declaration, 'Our eyes are on Thee,' exemplifies the faith needed to invite God's intervention, which resulted in victory through praise. Poonen warns against the extremes of emotional praise without holiness and serious living without joy, urging believers to embody both praise and holiness as they follow Christ. Ultimately, he encourages a faith-filled praise that acknowledges God's sovereignty, even amidst trials.
The Supreme Task
By G.W. North0The CrossRedemptionISA 53:5MAT 26:28JHN 3:16JHN 19:11ROM 5:82CO 5:21EPH 2:13COL 1:20HEB 12:21PE 2:24G.W. North emphasizes the significance of Golgotha as the divinely appointed site for the ultimate sacrifice, where Jesus, despite the brutality of crucifixion, fulfilled God's eternal plan. He highlights that the power to crucify Jesus was granted by God, illustrating that only divine authority could apply the spiritual principles of death to the Son of God. North reflects on the paradox of Jesus' struggle against sin while simultaneously yielding to death, showcasing His dual nature of resisting evil and embracing God's will. The sermon underscores that the supreme task of Jesus was to achieve total redemption and open the way for communion between God and humanity, a task that encompassed profound spiritual truths. Ultimately, North conveys that this monumental work was central to Jesus' mission and the foundation of salvation.
In the Garden of Gethsemane
By K.P. Yohannan0ObedienceSubmission to GodJDG 7:2JHN 19:11K.P. Yohannan emphasizes the importance of recognizing God's sovereignty in our lives, as demonstrated by Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane, where He acknowledged that the power of the soldiers came from above. He draws a parallel to Gideon's story in Judges, where a small, obedient army of 300 men followed God's unconventional strategy to defeat a much larger enemy. This illustrates the necessity of total submission to God's will and the leaders He appoints, trusting that His plans, though they may seem illogical, are ultimately for our victory. The sermon encourages believers to embrace humility and obedience in their walk with God.
Christians in Politics?
By David Servant0EXO 1:21PRO 29:2MAT 5:13MAT 6:10LUK 1:52JHN 19:11ACT 4:19ROM 13:11CO 6:3David Servant delves into the moral issues of Christian involvement in politics and government, emphasizing the importance of understanding the role of human government as a secondary means to restrain sin and maintain order. He explores the biblical perspective on submission to governing authorities, highlighting the balance between obeying earthly rulers and obeying God when their commands contradict divine principles. Through a deep dive into Romans 13:1-7, he challenges the notion that Christians should abstain from political involvement, advocating for active participation in government to influence policies that align with moral values and promote righteousness.
Jesus Stands Trial Before Pilate John 18:28-19:16
By David Servant0MAT 27:24MRK 15:10LUK 23:2JHN 19:6JHN 19:11David Servant delves into the events leading to Jesus' crucifixion, highlighting Pilate's struggle to find Jesus guilty of a crime punishable by death, despite knowing the chief priests' envy and Jesus' innocence. Pilate attempts to spare Jesus' life multiple times, facing pressure from the crowd and his wife's warning, but ultimately succumbs to the demands for crucifixion. Jesus' response to Pilate's authority reveals the ultimate sovereignty of God over earthly rulers and decisions, emphasizing that all authority comes from God.
Blessed Are the Meek
By Anton Bosch0NUM 12:3ISA 53:7MAT 5:5MAT 11:12MAT 11:29MAT 21:5MAT 27:14JHN 19:11ACT 26:141PE 2:23Anton Bosch preaches on the importance of meekness in Christianity, contrasting it with the aggressive nature often emphasized in modern beliefs. Meekness, as exemplified by Jesus, is not weakness but strength under God's control, surrendering to the Father's will without asserting oneself. True meekness is understanding that God is sovereign in our lives, guiding us through situations and people as tools in His hands. Learning meekness from Jesus brings rest and peace, unlike constant agitation and fighting against God's guidance.
Contending Biblically 3
By Anton Bosch0PSA 127:1PRO 3:5JHN 19:11GAL 5:23GAL 6:1EPH 6:121TH 2:71TI 3:22TI 2:23TIT 3:1Anton Bosch emphasizes the importance of following the clear command in 2 Timothy 2:23-26 to avoid disputes, be gentle to all, and be patient when correcting others' doctrine. He highlights the need for humility, meekness, and the ability to teach when dealing with those in error, stressing that only God can grant repentance and lead individuals to acknowledge the truth. Bosch cautions against pride, arrogance, and a critical spirit, urging believers to approach correction with compassion, mercy, and a heart of brokenness.
Contending With Attitude
By Anton Bosch0PSA 127:1LUK 18:12JHN 19:11GAL 6:1EPH 6:122TI 2:24TIT 3:1Anton Bosch emphasizes the importance of meekness in correcting those in opposition to the truth, highlighting that meekness stems from recognizing God's mercy, our own faults, and the inability to change others without God's intervention. He explains that those in opposition are ensnared by the devil and can only be freed through God's intervention, not through human efforts. Bosch stresses the need for a humble, compassionate, and merciful approach when dealing with those in error, leaving the outcome to God's sovereign work of granting repentance and revealing the truth.
The Death of the Cross
By J.C. Philpot0PSA 118:27ISA 53:8JHN 7:38JHN 19:11ROM 3:25EPH 5:2PHP 2:81TI 3:16HEB 9:26HEB 12:22Chapter Four from the book 'Meditations on the Sacred Humanity of Our Blessed Redeemer' delves into the profound mystery of Godliness, emphasizing the incarnation of God in the flesh and the sacrificial obedience of Jesus Christ unto death. It explores the necessity of shedding blood and the voluntary death of the sacrificial victim for atonement. The chapter vividly portrays the intense sufferings of Jesus, both physically and spiritually, as he bore the weight of sin and endured the wrath of God to accomplish redemption and reconcile humanity to God through his sacrificial death.
God's Will
By Charles E. Cowman0PSA 37:23PRO 3:5ISA 41:10JHN 19:11ROM 8:28Charles E. Cowman preaches about the sovereignty of God's will, emphasizing that nothing can happen in the life of a believer without God's permission. This truth should lead to a life filled with continuous gratitude and joy, knowing that God's will is always working for our good if we are surrendered and have faith. Even in the midst of afflictions and unjust situations, understanding that everything ultimately comes from God's will can bring peace and assurance that all things work together for the good of those who love Him.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Hath the greater sin - It is a sin in thee to condemn me, while thou art convinced in thy conscience that I am innocent: but the Jews who delivered me to thee, and Judas who delivered me to the Jews, have the greater crime to answer for. Thy ignorance in some measure excuses thee; but the rage and malice of the Jews put them at present out of the reach of mercy.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Thou couldest--rather, "shouldst." have no power at all against me--neither to crucify nor to release, nor to do anything whatever against Me [BENGEL]. except it were--"unless it had been." given thee from above--that is, "Thou thinkest too much of thy power, Pilate: against Me that power is none, save what is meted out to thee by special divine appointment, for a special end." therefore he that delivered me unto thee--Caiaphas, too wit--but he only as representing the Jewish authorities as a body. hath the greater sin--as having better opportunities and more knowledge of such matters.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Jesus answered,.... With great intrepidity and courage, with freedom and boldness, as being not at all dismayed with his threatenings, or affected with his proud boasts, and in order to expose the vanity of them: thou couldst have no power at all against me, except it were given thee from above: meaning, not from the Jewish sanhedrim, whose court of judicature was in the temple, which was higher than the other part of the city; nor from the Roman emperor, or senate of Rome, the higher powers; by whom Pilate was made governor of Judea, and a judge in all causes relating to life and death; but reference is had to the place from whence he came, and to the decree and council of God above, and the agreement between the eternal three in heaven. Christ speaks of a power he had against him, that is, of taking away his life; he had no lawful power to do it at all; nor any power, right or wrong, had it not been given him by God: and which is to be ascribed, not merely to the general providence of God, without which nothing is done in this world; but to the determinate counsel of God, relating to this particular action of the crucifying of Christ; otherwise Christ, as God, could have struck Pilate his judge with death immediately, and without so doing could as easily have escaped out of his hands, as he had sometimes done out of the hands of the Jews; and, as man and Mediator, he could have prayed to his Father for, and have had, more than twelve legions of angels, which would soon have rescued him: but this was not to be; power was given to Pilate from heaven against him; not for any evil he himself had committed, or merely to gratify the envy and malice of the Jews, but for the salvation of God's elect, and for the glorifying of the divine perfections: and to this the Jews themselves agree in general, "that all the things of this world depend on above; and when they agree above first, (they say (s),) they agree below; and that there is no power below, until that , "power is given from above"; and the whole of that depends on this:'' therefore he that delivered me unto thee, hath the greater sin; , "than thine", as the Syriac version adds; and to the same purpose the Persic. Pilate had been guilty of sin already in scourging Christ, and suffering the Roman soldiers to abuse him; and would be guilty of a greater in delivering him up to be crucified, who he knew was innocent: but the sin of Judas in delivering him into the hands of the chief priests and elders, and of the chief priest and elders and people of the Jews, in delivering him to Pilate to crucify him, according to the Roman manner, were greater, inasmuch as theirs proceeded from malice and envy, and was done against greater light and knowledge; for by his works, miracles, and ministry, as well as by their own prophecies, they might, or must have known, that he was the Messiah, and Son of God: and it is to be observed, that as there is a difference in sin, and that all sins are not equal, the circumstances of things making an alteration; so that God's decree concerning the delivery of his Son into the hands of sinful men, does not excuse the sin of the betrayers of him. (s) Zohar in Gen. fol. 99. 1.