When Jesus told Pilate he had no authority over Him unless he received it from above, he made attempts to release Jesus. However, the Jews cried out accusing Pilate of betraying Caesar (12). “Therefore when Pilate heard these words, he brought Jesus out, and sat down on the judgment seat…” (13a, b) This took place on the day of preparation for Passover. While they clung to the celebration of the Passover, they failed to see its significance and did not recognize Jesus as the true fulfillment of Passover Lamb celebration. Pilate presented the beaten Christ, but they screamed louder at his attempts to release him calling for Jesus to be crucified. In direct defiance of God, they declared, “…’We have no king but Caesar.’” (15c). Jewish leaders feared loss of position, power, and privilege, but Pilate feared political pressure, loss of position, and possibly loss of life. May God give us the grace and wisdom not to fall into the delusional grip of being motivated by fear, but in faith to cling to God’s Word whatever the cost or loss. Fear is a very unhealthy motivator distorting perspective especially our eternal perspective.