Luke 23:20

KJV

Pilate therefore, willing to release Jesus, spake again to them.

KJV (with Strong's)

Pilate {G4091} therefore {G3767}, willing {G2309} to release {G630} Jesus {G2424}, spake {G4377} again {G3825} to them {G4377}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Pilate appealed to them again, because he wanted to release Yeshua.

Berean Standard Bible

Wanting to release Jesus, Pilate addressed them again,

American Standard Version

And Pilate spake unto them again, desiring to release Jesus;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Luke 23:20 captures a critical moment in Jesus' trial, revealing Pontius Pilate's persistent and deliberate efforts to release Jesus, even in the face of escalating public pressure. This verse underscores Pilate's internal conflict and his repeated attempts to avert the unjust condemnation of a man he found innocent, highlighting the dramatic tension between Roman authority and the fervent demands of the Jewish crowd.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is deeply embedded within the Passion narrative, specifically the account of Jesus' trial before Pontius Pilate, which begins in [Luke 23:1](/luke/23-1 "Luke 23:1 - Jesus Before Pilate"). Prior to this verse, Jesus has been accused by the chief priests and scribes, brought before Pilate, and repeatedly declared innocent by the Roman governor (see [Luke 23:4](/luke/23-4 "Luke 23:4 - Pilate Finds No Fault") and [Luke 23:14-15](/luke/23-14-15 "Luke 23:14-15 - Pilate's Second Declaration of Innocence")). Pilate had even proposed a compromise: scourging Jesus and then releasing Him, a practice associated with the Passover custom of releasing a prisoner. However, the chief priests and the crowds vehemently demanded Jesus' crucifixion and the release of Barabbas instead (as seen in [Luke 23:18-19](/luke/23-18-19 "Luke 23:18-19 - The Crowd Demands Barabbas")). Therefore, [Luke 23:20](/luke/23-20 "Luke 23:20 - Pilate's Renewed Effort") represents Pilate's renewed, desperate attempt to persuade the agitated multitude, demonstrating his internal conflict and reluctance to condemn an innocent man. It sets the stage for the crowd's final, overwhelming rejection of Jesus.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The trial of Jesus took place during Passover, a time of heightened religious and political tension in Jerusalem. Roman governors like Pilate were responsible for maintaining order and dispensing justice, often with an awareness of local customs and sensitivities. The practice of releasing a prisoner at Passover (known as *amnesty* or *privilegium Paschale*) was a gesture of goodwill, though its exact origins and widespread application are debated among historians. Pilate, as the Roman prefect of Judea, held ultimate judicial authority. However, he operated in a volatile environment where Jewish religious leaders wielded significant influence over the populace and where any perceived slight or injustice could spark a riot, threatening Roman stability. His repeated attempts to release Jesus reflect a desire to avoid an unjust execution and, perhaps more pragmatically, to prevent civil unrest that could jeopardize his position. The Jewish leaders' demand for crucifixion, a Roman form of execution, rather than stoning (a Jewish method), indicates their desire for Jesus to be put to death in a way that would mark him as a political criminal and ensure his complete public disgrace.

* **Key Themes:** [Luke 23:20](/luke/23-20 "Luke 23:20 - Pilate's Renewed Effort") contributes to several significant themes in Luke's Gospel and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights **Pilate's Reluctance and Persistence** in the face of immense pressure. The phrase "willing to release Jesus" (Greek: _thelōn apolysai_) clearly indicates Pilate's strong personal inclination and repeated efforts to acquit Jesus, portraying him not as a willing participant in Jesus' condemnation, but as a man caught between his own sense of justice and political expediency. Secondly, the verse implicitly underscores the destructive **Power of Mob Mentality**. Despite Pilate's authority and judgment, the immense influence exerted by the agitated crowd, stirred by the religious leaders, ultimately swayed his decision. This illustrates the dangers of succumbing to popular, misguided opinion, a theme also evident in the crowd's demands in [Luke 23:21](/luke/23-21 "Luke 23:21 - The Crowd's Cry for Crucifixion"). Finally, it subtly points to **Divine Sovereignty Amidst Human Actions**. While Pilate sought to release Jesus, the unfolding events were part of God's predetermined plan for salvation. This verse, therefore, paradoxically serves a larger divine purpose, as articulated in passages like [Acts 2:23](/acts/2-23 "Acts 2:23 - God's Foreknowledge and Human Agency").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Pilate (Greek, _Pilâtos'_):** This refers to Pontius Pilate, the Roman prefect of Judea from AD 26-36. The name, of Latin origin, means "close-pressed, i.e. firm," which ironically contrasts with his wavering and ultimately compromising stance in Jesus' trial. His role here is crucial as the representative of Roman imperial power, tasked with maintaining order and administering justice, yet failing to uphold the latter.
* **willing (Greek, _thélō'_):** Derived from G2309, this word signifies "to determine (as an active option from subjective impulse...); to wish, i.e. be inclined to (sometimes adverbially, gladly); to delight in." This term emphasizes Pilate's strong personal inclination, desire, and intention to set Jesus free. It highlights his internal conviction of Jesus' innocence, distinguishing his will from the external pressure he faced.
* **to release (Greek, _apolýō'_):** From G630, meaning "to free fully, i.e. (literally) relieve, release, dismiss (reflexively, depart), or (figuratively) let die, pardon or (specially) divorce." In this context, it refers to the act of setting a prisoner free, specifically pardoning Jesus from the charges against Him. Pilate's repeated desire to "release" Jesus underscores his judgment that Jesus was not guilty of any capital crime.
* **spake again (Greek, _prosphōnéō'_ and _pálin'_):** The verb _prosphōnéō_ (G4377) means "to sound towards, i.e. address, exclaim, summon," indicating a public and direct address. The adverb _pálin_ (G3825) means "anew, i.e. (of place) back, (of time) once more, or (conjunctionally) furthermore or on the other hand." The combination "spake again" therefore vividly conveys that this was not Pilate's first attempt to persuade the crowd, but a renewed, perhaps more urgent, appeal, demonstrating his persistence and the mounting tension of the situation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Pilate therefore":** This phrase links the current action to the preceding events, particularly Pilate's prior declarations of Jesus' innocence and the crowd's counter-demands. The "therefore" (Greek: _oûn_) indicates a logical consequence or continuation of the narrative, implying that Pilate's renewed appeal is a direct response to the crowd's stubborn refusal to accept his judgment.
* **"willing to release Jesus":** This clause reveals Pilate's internal disposition and intention. Despite the clamor of the crowd and the political implications, Pilate's personal desire was to acquit Jesus. This highlights the governor's conviction of Jesus' innocence and his reluctance to participate in an unjust execution, setting up a sharp contrast with the crowd's bloodthirsty demands.
* **"spake again to them":** This signifies Pilate's repeated, public attempt to reason with or persuade the assembled crowd and their leaders. The phrase "spake again" emphasizes his persistence and the escalating nature of the confrontation. It shows Pilate engaging directly with the multitude, trying to exert his authority and influence their decision, but ultimately finding his will insufficient against their collective resolve.

#### Literary Devices
Luke 23:20 is rich in literary devices that amplify its dramatic impact. **Repetition** is evident in Pilate's act of speaking "again," which echoes his previous declarations of Jesus' innocence and his attempts to release Him. This highlights Pilate's persistence and the crowd's unwavering opposition. There is profound **Dramatic Irony** at play: the Roman governor, a pagan authority, recognizes the innocence of the Son of God, while the religious leaders of Israel, who should have recognized their Messiah, are the ones vehemently demanding His crucifixion. This reversal of expected roles underscores the spiritual blindness of those who rejected Jesus. The verse also employs **Contrast**, setting Pilate's desire for justice and release against the crowd's irrational, vengeful demand for death. This stark opposition emphasizes the moral and spiritual conflict at the heart of the Passion narrative. Finally, Pilate's struggle and ultimate failure to release Jesus can be seen as **Foreshadowing** the inevitable fulfillment of God's sovereign plan, where even human injustice serves a higher redemptive purpose.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Luke 23:20 stands as a poignant testament to the tension between human will and divine purpose. Pilate's desire to release Jesus, though rooted in a sense of justice, ultimately gives way to political expediency and mob pressure, demonstrating the fragility of human resolve in the face of overwhelming opposition. Theologically, this moment underscores the profound truth that even the most powerful human authorities are subject to a higher power. Pilate's inability to release Jesus, despite his repeated attempts, subtly points to the predetermined nature of Christ's sacrifice. It was not merely a tragic outcome of human injustice, but the fulfillment of God's eternal plan for salvation, where the innocent Lamb of God would be offered for the sins of the world.

* [Acts 2:23](/acts/2-23 "Acts 2:23 - God's Foreknowledge and Human Agency"): "Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain."
* [John 19:10-11](/john/19-10-11 "John 19:10-11 - Jesus' Authority Over Pilate"): "Then saith Pilate unto him, Speakest thou not unto me? knowest thou not that I have power to crucify thee, and have power to release thee? Jesus answered, Thou couldest have no power at all against me, except it were given thee from above: therefore he that delivered me unto thee hath the greater sin."
* [Matthew 27:24](/matthew/27-24 "Matthew 27:24 - Pilate Washes His Hands"): "When Pilate saw that he could prevail nothing, but that rather a tumult was made, he took water, and washed his hands before the multitude, saying, I am innocent of the blood of this just person: see ye to it."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Luke 23:20 offers profound insights for contemporary believers, challenging us to examine our own convictions and responses to pressure. Pilate, despite knowing Jesus' innocence, ultimately succumbed to the demands of the crowd, highlighting the immense power of popular opinion and the dangers of compromising truth for convenience or social acceptance. This narrative urges us to cultivate moral courage, to stand firm for what is right, even when it is unpopular or costly. It serves as a stark reminder that true justice often requires resisting the prevailing tide and that our convictions should be rooted in divine truth, not in the fluctuating sentiments of the masses. We are called to be discerning, to think critically, and to ensure that our actions are guided by righteousness, rather than by the fear of man or the desire for approval. Pilate's tragic compromise underscores the severe consequences that can arise when conviction is sacrificed, not only for the individual but for the broader community and for the cause of truth itself.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life do you feel pressure to compromise your convictions, similar to Pilate?**
* **How can you cultivate greater courage to stand for truth and justice, even when it is unpopular or costly?**
* **What are some ways to discern between righteous conviction and the deceptive influence of popular opinion or "mob mentality" in today's society?**
* **Reflect on a time when you compromised your beliefs. What were the consequences, and what lessons did you learn?**

### FAQ
**Why was Pilate so willing to release Jesus, despite the accusations against Him?**

Answer: Pilate's willingness to release Jesus stemmed primarily from his repeated assessment that Jesus was innocent of any capital crime, particularly sedition against Rome. As a Roman governor, his duty was to uphold justice and maintain order. He found no credible evidence that Jesus was a threat to Caesar or the Roman Empire, as explicitly stated in [Luke 23:4](/luke/23-4 "Luke 23:4 - Pilate Finds No Fault") and [Luke 23:14-15](/luke/23-14-15 "Luke 23:14-15 - Pilate's Second Declaration of Innocence"). Furthermore, Pilate likely recognized that the accusations were driven by envy and religious animosity from the Jewish leaders, rather than genuine legal infractions (as noted in [Matthew 27:18](/matthew/27-18 "Matthew 27:18 - Pilate's Awareness of Envy")). His attempts to release Jesus, including offering Barabbas as an alternative, were efforts to avoid an unjust execution and to prevent a potential riot during the sensitive Passover festival.

**What does "spake again to them" imply about Pilate's character or the situation?**

Answer: The phrase "spake again to them" (Greek: _prosphōnéō pálin_) implies several things about Pilate and the unfolding drama. Firstly, it highlights Pilate's **persistence** and **reluctance** to condemn Jesus. This was not his first attempt to release Jesus, but a renewed appeal, indicating his strong desire to avoid the unjust verdict. Secondly, it underscores the **intense pressure** Pilate was under from the crowd and the chief priests. His repeated efforts suggest that the crowd's demands were not easily dismissed, and he was struggling against a powerful, agitated force. Thirdly, it reveals Pilate's **weakness** and **indecisiveness** in the face of political expediency. Despite his judicial authority and personal conviction of Jesus' innocence, he ultimately lacked the resolve to stand firm against the popular will, leading to his tragic compromise detailed later in [Luke 23:24](/luke/23-24 "Luke 23:24 - Pilate Delivers Jesus to Be Crucified").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Luke 23:20, depicting Pilate's futile attempts to release Jesus, profoundly underscores the Christ-centered narrative of salvation. While Pilate, in his human capacity, desired to exercise justice and set an innocent man free, his efforts were ultimately overruled by a divine decree. This verse, therefore, is not merely a historical account of a Roman governor's indecision but a testament to the sovereign plan of God, which ordained that His Son would be delivered up for the sins of humanity. Jesus' unjust condemnation, despite Pilate's recognition of His innocence, was the very means by which God's righteous judgment against sin was satisfied. The Lamb of God, though spotless and without blemish, was "led as a lamb to the slaughter" ([Isaiah 53:7](/isaiah/53-7 "Isaiah 53:7 - The Suffering Servant")) not because of human error or political weakness, but because it was the Father's will for Him to bear the world's sin. Pilate's repeated attempts to release Jesus ironically highlight the absolute necessity of Christ's sacrifice; had Jesus been released, humanity would remain in its sin. Thus, Pilate's failure to release Jesus is a powerful reminder that God's redemptive plan, conceived before the foundation of the world, was meticulously unfolded through human actions, ensuring that "God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us" ([Romans 5:8](/romans/5-8 "Romans 5:8 - God's Love Demonstrated")). The cross, born of human injustice, became the ultimate expression of divine justice and love, fulfilling the prophecies and securing eternal redemption for all who believe.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Mark 15:15

¶ And [so] Pilate, willing to content the people, released Barabbas unto them, and delivered Jesus, when he had scourged [him], to be crucified.

John 19:12

And from thenceforth Pilate sought to release him: but the Jews cried out, saying, If thou let this man go, thou art not Caesar's friend: whosoever maketh himself a king speaketh against Caesar.

Matthew 14:8

And she, being before instructed of her mother, said, Give me here John Baptist's head in a charger.

Matthew 14:9

And the king was sorry: nevertheless for the oath's sake, and them which sat with him at meat, he commanded [it] to be given [her].

Matthew 27:19

When he was set down on the judgment seat, his wife sent unto him, saying, Have thou nothing to do with that just man: for I have suffered many things this day in a dream because of him.