SOAP #3

Scripture

After Jesus predicts that one of his disciples will betray Him, He is questioned:

Judas said, “Is it I, Rabbi?”

[Jesus] said to him, “Σὺ εἶπας.”
Matthew 26:25

The high priest said to him, “I adjure you by the living God: tell us if you are the Christ, the Son of God.”

Jesus said to him, “Σὺ εἶπας…”
Matthew 26:63-64

[Pilate] questioned him, saying, “Are you the king of the Jews?”

Jesus said to him, “Σὺ λέγεις.”
Matthew 27:11

Observation

Note Jesus’ threefold reply:

“Σὺ εἶπας.”
“You have said so.”
Matthew 26:25

“Σὺ εἶπας.”
“You have said so.”
Matthew 26:64

“Σὺ λέγεις.”
“You say so.”
Matthew 27:11

The only difference in the third occurrence is tense. In each case, all Jesus needs to do is confirm the truth already spoken by each person.

They already knew who they themselves were and who Jesus was. Yet they acted against Him anyway, thus intensifying their own guilt:

“It is I.”

“You are the Christ, the Son of God.”

“You are the king of the Jews.”

Even the sign which hung above His head: “This is Jesus, the king of the Jews” (Matt. 27:37)

Application

When I sin with knowledge, it is even greater sin. I am of all men most needful of the Sacrifice of the Lamb of God.

Prayer

O God,
Have mercy on me according to your lovingkindness. Purge me thoroughly from my iniquity. Against You, and You alone, have I sinned so many times, with the knowledge of Your word. Crush my pride. Make me like a child, that I might please you, my Father. Jesus, the judge of the living and the dead, need not accuse me, for I have condemned myself. Your unconditional love is staggering. Praise יהוה.