Definition: Pilate answered, Am I a Jew? Thine own nation and the chief priests have delivered thee unto me: what hast thou done?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly important passage from John 18:35. It’s a pivotal moment in Jesus’ trial and ultimately, his crucifixion. Here's an explanation in simple terms: The Core of the Verse: Pilate is asking Jesus, “Are you a Jew?” And then he continues with, “Do you own your own nation, and the chief priests have delivered you to me? What did you do?” Let’s unpack it piece by piece: 1. “Are you a Jew?” – Pilate is testing Jesus’ loyalty. He's trying to understand who he is and whether he's part of the Jewish community. It’s a question about his identity and allegiance. 2. “Do you own your own nation, and the chief priests have delivered you unto me?” – This is where it gets really significant. Pilate is asking if Jesus was involved in some kind of trouble or wrongdoing that would make him a threat to the Roman authorities. He's looking for evidence of rebellion or defiance. “The chief priests” refers to the leaders of the Jewish religious community, particularly the High Priest. 3. “What did you do?” – This is the crucial question. Pilate demands an explanation for Jesus’ actions during his trial. It's a demand for accountability and an attempt to understand what he was dealing with. The Significance & What it Means: This verse isn’t just about a simple disagreement. It reveals several important things: Jesus is being accused of something significant: Pilate believes Jesus has done something wrong – perhaps he's been challenging religious traditions or even engaging in some kind of rebellious behavior. Pilate is seeking to understand the situation: He’s not just trying to punish Jesus; he wants to know why he’s being accused and what caused the trouble. It suggests a complex political situation at play. Jesus is defiant despite the pressure: The way Jesus responds – his silence, his refusal to answer directly – speaks volumes. He's not admitting guilt, but rather maintaining his dignity and refusing to be intimidated. Overall Interpretation: This verse sets up a dramatic scene of conflict and tension. It highlights the power dynamic between Jesus and the Roman authorities, and it suggests that Pilate is determined to uncover the truth behind Jesus’ actions. It's a moment where faith and defiance collide. --- To help me tailor this explanation further for you, could you tell me: What are you hoping to understand from this verse? (e.g., are you trying to grasp its historical context, its theological meaning, or something else?)