“Pilate is a footnote in the story of Jesus.” – Andy Stanley
Does the Bible talk politics?
Yes.
Actually a lot of political leaders found their way into the story of the scriptures.
From pharaohs in the book of Genesis to the military commanders in the times of judges and kings to the rise and fall of kingdoms in the time of the prophets- the bible talks a lot of politics.
In fact Jesus’ life was deeply impacted by the political climate of his time. It was King Herod who pursued the Christ child. The enemies of Jesus appealed to Roman law on numerous occasions to trap him. Finally, it was the governor Pilate who sent him to the cross.
But here is the bigger truth, Pilate is not the story. “Pilate is a footnote in the story of Jesus.”
And he is not the only one.
Pharaoh is a footnote in the story of Moses.
King Ahasuerus is a footnote in the story of Esther.
Darius is a footnote in the story of Daniel.
Donald Trump and Hilary Clinton are footnotes in the story God is writing today.
…
Jesus urged his followers to comply with the government’s rule and to “render to Caesar what is Caesar’s.” Mark 12:17
But Jesus also said this:
“My kingdom is not of this world. If my kingdom were of this world, my servants would have been fighting, that I might not be delivered over to the Jews. But my kingdom is not from the world.” John 18:36
Jesus said earth is not his kingdom. And his followers don’t engage earth kingdom ways.
Why not? Why didn’t they rally the masses and start a political revolution? Why didn’t they protest? Why didn’t they indict their culture? Why didn’t they fight?
Because they lived this truth:
“Our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.” Phil. 3:20
If you find yourself clouded with doubt and worry about America’s future. Remember your kingdom is not of this world. Put your claim where your citizenship lies, where King Jesus reigns- heaven.
