Jesus' Trial Story Summary
Pilate, the elders of the people, and all the chief priests gathered together to make a decision to kill Jesus. When Judas, Jesus' betrayer, saw that Jesus was condemned, he returned all of his silver coins back to the chief priests and elders.
" I am a sinner," Judas said, " I have betrayed Jesus' blood." The chief priests looked at him like he was crazy.
" You already made your decision," they replied, " it was your responsibility. "
Judas threw the coins and left the temple. Then Judas went away and he hanged himself for all the sins that he has made.
In the mean time, Jesus went before Pilate, the governor.
" Are you the king of the Jews?" Pilate asked.
" Yes, it is as you say." Jesus replied. Now it was time for the governor to release the prisoner chosen by the crowd. At the time there was another notorious prisoner: Barabbas. So when the crowd has gathered together, Pilate asked, " Who shall I release to you? Barabbas or Jesus who says he is the messiah?" For he knew it was of envy that they had handed over Jesus. The chief priests and the elders persuaded the crowd to ask for Barabbas and to have Jesus executed.
" Which of these two do I release to you?" asked the governor.
" Barabbas!" They shouted.
" What do you want me to do with Jesus?" asked Pilate.
" Crucify him!" They all shouted.
" Why? What crime has this man committed?" asked Pilate.
But they shouted louder, " Crucify him!"
Pilate took water and washed his hands in front of the crowd.
" I am innocent of this man's precious blood." He said.
" Let his blood be on us and our children!" They shouted. Then he released Barabbas to the people. But he had Jesus flogged, and handed him over to be crucified.