Matthew 26:24 is a good example of this tension.

“The Son of Man is to go, just as it is written of Him; but woe to that man by whom the Son of Man is betrayed! It would have been good for that man if he had not been born.”

Casey:

Thanks, I get the God has authority, This I agree with, I stuggle with the word, therefore, that signify’s a connection to previous thought, and with the word he , which I’m assuming to mean the Jewish authorities who had been planning this.

I too, see tension with a God who would and could control things to such a degree as to carry out his plan using Pilate but not able to control things to the same degree in regards to influencing/planning one for salvation. Could Pilate have ,through his own will , not condemned Christ to die, or does God simply know the decision Pilate would make in his heart.

Appreciate your thoughts !

Jim, in answer to your questions about the greater authority and sin…

I propose that the meaning is that:

1) Pilate’s authority was checked and restricted by God…ultimately only God had authority in this situation as he allowed Pilate to have his position…though that does not excuse Pilate’s sinful decision to crucify Jesus

2) In the same way, the Jewish leadership that handed Jesus to Pilate, though ultimately under the authrotiy of God, is still guilty for trying to kill the Son of God…and more guilty than Pilate because they are the true instigators.

This exemplifies a tension all over scripture regarding God’s sovereingty and plan being carried out by individuals who maintain responsibility and guilt for their choices. Much like Babylon as an instrument of judgment in God’s hands on Judah but also guilty. See also Joseph’s brothers, Pharoah of Egypt, Assyria, Judas, and the list goes on.

Wonderful series, really enjoying these discoveries and the impact they have on the gospel.

Just a pondering thought that’s nagging at me, in John 19-9-11 what did Jesus mean when he said to Pilate he had no authority except from that above. I’m assuming he meant God was in control of Jesus being here at this time and the fulfillment of what would happen on the cross. Then in proceeding verse he says that greater is the sin of HE who has delivered me over to you…did not God deliver Jesus over to Pilate. Is this verse completely abstract from his previous statement? Is he refering to the mob or a particular person.

Sorry for the ramble , just struggling with a clear understanding of what is going on here?

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Awesome. I believe more now than I did before I read!