John 18:34 “Jesus answered, ‘Are you saying this on your own initiative, or did others tell you about Me?’"
First, notice how love pushes for the highest good. The highest good in this instance for Pilate was to ask himself, “Is it possible that this man really is the a king? And if he is, what kingdom is he the king of?” Jesus answered Pilate’s question with a question that revealed Pilate’s heart and motives. Second, notice also that Jesus isn’t telling Pilate something he’s not ready to hear. Third, notice also that Jesus was reminding him, kindly, that the law requires witnesses. “Did others tell you about Me?"
We can learn from this exchange how to answer an opponent or antagonist. It is better to answer questions of accusation with a question that helps them sort out why they are doing what they are doing. Jesus was keeping the burden of proof on Pilate and the Jews. When we know we are of the truth, the burden of proof rests on the accuser. Like Jesus, we should rest peacefully in the truth. If we live to love with Jesus we will always be walking and standing in the truth, for Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life.
For more encouragement to live to love with Jesus I invite you to visit www.livetolovewithjesus.com.
Acknowledgment: Music from “Carried by the Father” by Eric Terlizzi. www.ericterlizzi.com
