Joh 19:12 | RWP | e4.org | Sought ( εζητε ). Imperfect active, "kept on seeking," "made renewed efforts to release him." He was afraid to act boldly against the will of the Jews. If thou release this man ( εαν τουτον απολυσηις ). Condition of third class, a direct threat to Pilate. He knew all the time that the Sanhedrin might tell Caesar on him. Thou art not Caesar's friend ( ουκ ε φιλος του καισαρος ). Later to Vespasian this was an official title, here simply a daring threat to Pilate. Speaketh against Caesar ( αντιλεγε τω καισαρ ). Caesar brooks no rival. Jesus had allowed himself to be acclaimed king of Israel in the Triumphal Entry ( ; ; ). The Sanhedrin have caught Pilate in their toils.

‏ John 19:12

Sought ( εζητε ). Imperfect active, "kept on seeking," "made renewed efforts to release him." He was afraid to act boldly against the will of the Jews.

If thou release this man ( εαν τουτον απολυσηις ). Condition of third class, a direct threat to Pilate. He knew all the time that the Sanhedrin might tell Caesar on him.

Thou art not Caesar's friend ( ουκ ε φιλος του καισαρος ). Later to Vespasian this was an official title, here simply a daring threat to Pilate.

Speaketh against Caesar ( αντιλεγε τω καισαρ ). Caesar brooks no rival. Jesus had allowed himself to be acclaimed king of Israel in the Triumphal Entry (Joh 12:13; Mr 11:10; Lu 19:38). The Sanhedrin have caught Pilate in their toils.