HANDING OVER JESUS DURING HIS TRIAL
The trial and crucifixion of Jesus Christ stand as pivotal events in Christian theology. By examining the series of “handing over” during Jesus’ trial, we gain deeper insight into their significance and the messages they convey to modern Christians.
THE SEQUENCE OF JESUS BEING HANDED OVER
Jesus foretold his fate, saying, “Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem, and the Son of Man will be handed over to the chief priests and the scribes, and they will condemn him to death” (Mt 20:18). This prophecy unfolded through a series of transfers:
1. Judas to the Temple Guards: Judas Iscariot, driven by greed, betrayed Jesus to the Jewish authorities for thirty pieces of silver (Mt 26:14-16).
2. Temple Guards to the Sanhedrin: Jesus was brought before the chief priests and elders for questioning (Mt 26:57).
3. Sanhedrin to Pilate: Unable to carry out a death sentence, the Jewish leaders handed Jesus over to the Roman governor, Pontius Pilate (Mt 27:1-2).
4. Pilate to Herod: Learning that Jesus was from Galilee, Pilate sent him to Herod Antipas, who had jurisdiction there (Lk 23:6-7).
5. Herod back to Pilate: Finding no fault in Jesus, Herod returned him to Pilate (Lk 23:11).
6. Pilate to the Crowd: Pilate presented Jesus to the crowd alongside Barabbas, allowing them to choose who should be released (Mt 27:17-21).
7. Pilate to the Roman Soldiers: Finally, succumbing to the crowd’s demands, Pilate handed Jesus over to be crucified (Jn 19:16).
CATHOLIC INTERPRETATION AND SIGNIFICANCE
The Catholic Church finds profound meaning in these events. According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, “Jesus’ redemptive death fulfills Isaiah’s prophecy of the suffering Servant” (CCC 601). This series of “handing over” is seen not merely as historical events, but as part of God’s divine plan for salvation.
The Church teaches that Christ’s sacrifice on the cross was unique and all-encompassing. As the Catechism explains, “The existence in Christ of the divine person of the Son, who at once surpasses and embraces all human persons, and constitutes himself as the Head of all mankind, makes possible his redemptive sacrifice for all” (CCC 616).
REFLECTION
Reflecting on these events offers several important lessons for contemporary Christians:
1. Selflessness and Sacrifice: Jesus’ willingness to endure this ordeal reminds us of the importance of self-sacrifice for the greater good.
2. Forgiveness: Despite the injustices He faced, Jesus forgave His persecutors, setting an example of mercy and love.
3. Trust in God’s Plan: Even in the face of betrayal and suffering, Jesus remained faithful to His Father’s will, demonstrating the importance of trust in God’s providence.
4. Awareness of Our Own Failings: The various parties involved in handing over Jesus were motivated by self-interest, fear, or indifference. This serves as a reminder to examine our own motivations and actions.
5. Redemptive Suffering: The Catholic Church teaches that our own sufferings, united with Christ’s, can have redemptive value (CCC 618).
As we contemplate these events, we are called to embody Christ’s teachings in our daily lives. St. Paul encourages us to “not be conquered by evil but conquer evil with good” (Rom 12:21). By doing so, we participate in Christ’s ongoing work of redemption in the world.