In 1521, Martin Luther was summoned before the assembly of the Holy Roman Empire to recant his critique of the Catholic Church. He refused unless proven wrong by Scripture, stating, “Here I stand; I can do no other.” Luther’s unrelenting position led to his excommunication—and the start of the Protestant Reformation.
John 18 documents a series of intense confrontations, from the Garden of Gethsemane to the courtyard to the courtroom, culminating in the crucifixion of Jesus. Again and again, Jesus and His disciples were challenged. Would they speak truth—even when the stakes were incredibly high?
In the garden, the all-knowing Jesus initiated a conversation with the Roman soldiers by twice asking, “Who is it you want?” (vv. 4, 7). When they answered, “Jesus of Nazareth,” Jesus disclosed His identity. The arresting party fell to the ground in response.
When Annas and Caiaphas questioned Jesus about His teaching, Jesus replied: “I have spoken openly to the world” (v. 20a). He had communicated the truth with boldness—in synagogues and temples. Meanwhile, in the courtyard, the once-brash Peter was confronted by bystanders, asking about his association with Jesus. Out of self-protection, Peter denied Jesus three times. We see that, under pressure, our communication can reject truth as easily as we can confess it.
Finally, Pilate asked Jesus directly, “Are you the king of the Jews?” (v. 33). Jesus redirected the question, exposing Pilate’s assumptions and ultimately articulating His mission: “The reason I…came into the world is to testify to the truth” (v. 37b). Pilate’s cynical question—“What is truth?”—signaled his inability to understand Jesus’ message. Truth stood before him, but he did not see.
Go Deeper
How has God called you to speak truth even when it’s difficult? What can we learn from watching Jesus respond to His opponents?
Pray with Us
Jesus, You are our example for how to respond in difficult situations. You spoke truth with authority, but without fear or arrogance. Teach us how to do the same.
The reason I was born and came into the world is to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me.John 18:37
DAILY DEVOTIONS, NEWS AND INFORMATION 