Acts 13:28

And though they found no ground for a death sentence, they asked Pilate to have Him executed.

Study Bible

And though they found no ground for a death sentence
This phrase highlights the innocence of Jesus Christ in the eyes of His accusers. The Greek word for "ground" (αἰτία, aitia) implies a cause or reason. Despite their efforts, the religious leaders could not find a legitimate reason to justify a death sentence under Jewish law. This underscores the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, such as Isaiah 53:9, which speaks of the suffering servant who had "done no violence, nor was any deceit in His mouth." Historically, this reflects the miscarriage of justice that Jesus faced, as even the Roman governor, Pontius Pilate, found no fault in Him (John 18:38).

they asked Pilate
The Jewish leaders' appeal to Pilate, the Roman governor, signifies their inability to carry out a death sentence themselves, as they were under Roman occupation. The Greek verb "asked" (αἰτέω, aiteo) suggests a request or demand, indicating their determination to see Jesus executed despite His innocence. This action fulfills Jesus' own prediction of His death by crucifixion, a Roman method of execution (Matthew 20:19). It also highlights the political dynamics of the time, where the Jewish authorities had to collaborate with Roman officials to achieve their ends.

to have Him executed
The phrase "to have Him executed" refers to the crucifixion of Jesus, a central event in Christian theology. The Greek word for "executed" (ἀναιρέω, anaireo) means to take away or destroy, emphasizing the violent nature of His death. This act of execution, though unjust, was part of God's redemptive plan for humanity. It fulfilled the sacrificial system of the Old Testament, where the innocent bore the sins of the guilty (Hebrews 9:22). Theologically, this moment is pivotal, as it represents the atonement for sin and the ultimate expression of God's love and justice. Historically, crucifixion was a common Roman practice for criminals, yet in Jesus' case, it became the means of salvation for all who believe.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul and Barnabas
The apostles who are speaking in the synagogue in Pisidian Antioch, recounting the history of Israel and the coming of Jesus.

2. Jesus Christ
The central figure of the Gospel, whose unjust trial and crucifixion are being recounted.

3. Pilate
The Roman governor who, despite finding no fault in Jesus, was pressured by the Jewish leaders to authorize His crucifixion.

4. Jewish Leaders
The religious authorities in Jerusalem who sought Jesus' death despite His innocence.

5. Pisidian Antioch
The location where Paul and Barnabas are delivering this message, a city in the region of Galatia.

Teaching Points

The Injustice of Man
Despite Jesus' innocence, human systems of justice failed. This reminds us of the fallibility of human judgment and the need for divine justice.

Fulfillment of Prophecy
Jesus' death, though unjust, was a fulfillment of God's redemptive plan as foretold by the prophets, demonstrating God's sovereignty.

The Pressure of Public Opinion
Pilate's decision was swayed by the crowd, highlighting the danger of compromising truth for the sake of appeasing others.

The Innocence of Christ
Jesus' innocence is central to the Gospel, underscoring His role as the spotless Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.

The Role of Human Agents in God's Plan
Even those who opposed Jesus played a part in God's redemptive plan, showing that God can use all circumstances for His purposes.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the innocence of Jesus, as highlighted in Acts 13:28, impact your understanding of His sacrifice for our sins?

2. In what ways can we see the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies in the events described in Acts 13:28?

3. How can we guard against the influence of public opinion when it conflicts with our faith and convictions?

4. What does Pilate's role in Jesus' crucifixion teach us about the responsibility of leadership and decision-making?

5. How can we find comfort in knowing that God can use even unjust situations for His greater purpose, as seen in the crucifixion of Jesus?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Luke 23:4, 14-15
These verses describe Pilate's acknowledgment of Jesus' innocence, reinforcing the claim in Acts 13:28 that no grounds for a death sentence were found.

John 19:12-16
This passage details the pressure Pilate faced from the Jewish leaders and the crowd, leading to his decision to crucify Jesus.

Isaiah 53:7-9
The prophecy of the suffering servant who, despite being innocent, was led to slaughter, paralleling the events of Jesus' trial and crucifixion.

Matthew 27:24
Pilate's symbolic act of washing his hands, indicating his attempt to absolve himself of responsibility for Jesus' death.