John 19:12

In the last place, Pilate, retaining still some of that former impression of fear, v. 8. and being now calmed and further instructed by Christs answer to his proud boasting, he endeavours yet more to have Christ released; But is assaulted and opposed by the Jewes, who renewing their former challenge concerning Christs Kingdome, do accuse Pilate of treason against Caesars authority And this did at last crush all his resolutions, as the sequele cleareth. Doct. 1. Mens moral principles and natural conscience may lead them for a long time to cleave to what is good, notwithstanding any opposition or irritations from without, or stirrings of corruption from within; for, albeit Pilate in this endeavour, had been not only often opposed by the Jewes before, but his corruption had been stirred by Christs carriage toward him, yet he overcometh all that, and from thence forth sought to release him, though the means he essayed be not expressed. 2. Natural mens moral principles will lead them to own Christ but very ineffectually, and so as they may wrong no other important interest; for, albeit he yet stood for Christs releasment, yet he who boasted of his power to release Christ at his pleasure, v. 10. will not employ his power for that end, but only sought to release him, if it might be with their good liking. 3. Such as be friend Christ (especially if they be but natural men) will not be so instant, but his enemies will be as stubborn, and with unwearied obstinacy will prosecute their malicious designes, till they be satisfied; for, all these often renewed endeavours of Pilate do not out weary the Jewes, but they cried out, &c. 4. Christs enemies are so malicious and cruel, that they preferre his ruine to all interests and considerations whatsoever; for, so much doth this renewed challenge hold out, If thou let this man go, thou art not Caesars friend, &c. They regard not to be accounted negligent and carelesse in matters of their own law, but do passe from their accusation of blasphemy, v. 7. and return to that of his Kingdome, if so be it will carry their point better; and they appear mighty zealous for Caesar, and enraged that his Deputy did not regard his interest more (though indeed they had no great liking to him) and all that they may get Christ crucified, and Pilate excited to it. 5. It is no strange thing to see Christ and his followers persecuted as enemies unto authority, though unjustly; for, he is not to be let go upon this account, If thou let this man go, thou art not Caesars friend, for whosoever maketh himselfe a King, speaketh against Caesar. 6. Such is the malice of Christs enemies, that they do not only pursue himselfe and his followers, but they do hate and maligne and (as they have opportunity) accuse all these who are not so cruel as themselves, but would shew any favour to him or his people; for, so do they here accuse Pilate, If thou let this man go, thou art not Caesars friend.