John 18:28-40, 2025.03.06 (Thursday)

The people took Jesus from the house of Caiaphas to the governor's headquarters. It was early in the morning. They did not enter the headquarters themselves to avoid ritual defilement so that they could eat the Passover meal. (John 18:28)

The Jews who accused Jesus brought Him to Governor Pilate. Their reason for taking Him to Pilate was not for a religious trial but to ensure His execution through a political judgment. This passage is familiar, but today, John 18:28 stood out to me.

The phrase, "They did not enter the headquarters themselves to avoid ritual defilement so that they could eat the Passover meal," reflects the Jews' attitude toward Gentiles. Although Pilate was a governor appointed by Rome, the Jews, who normally would not associate with Gentiles, sought his power to have Jesus put to death.

In this scene, they appear to uphold a pure faith, yet they conspired with a Gentile to kill Jesus. Their desire to be recognized as law-abiding individuals was so great that they avoided entering Pilate's residence while simultaneously seeking his authority to carry out their plot.

For those who held such values, Jesus' ministry must have been unsettling. Outwardly, they seemed righteous, but at their core, they pursued superiority, discrimination, and strategic manipulation to achieve their own goals. The Jewish religious leaders of that time were not afraid to use any means necessary to get what they wanted. In this context, Jesus' proclamation, "Repent and believe in the gospel," must have put them in a difficult position.

Lent has begun. During yesterday's Ash Wednesday service, we reflected on the words, "Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return," and "Repent and believe in the gospel." When I heard the words "Repent and believe in the gospel," my heart trembled. We often think of repentance as simply receiving forgiveness for our sins. Yes, Jesus' crucifixion is the event through which our sins are forgiven! But there is more—there is also a call to action in the words "Believe in the gospel." This phrase has prompted me to refocus and consider where my faith should be leading me.

Jesus' suffering was not only about the forgiveness of our sins; it was also about calling us to live a life shaped by the gospel. The "gospel" means "good news." I earnestly hope that we, as an Yeolin church, will continue striving to embody and share this good news.

Reflection 

Take time to deeply consider the meaning of "Believe in the gospel."

Intercessory Prayer 

1. Pray that Yeolin Church continues to grow and mature in faith.

2. This Sunday is both our church's anniversary and the day we participate in Rise Against Hunger. It is a day of joy and service. Please keep it in your prayers.