Pontius Pilate

Technical Profile

• Name Meaning: Greek/Latin name; meaning uncertain (often linked with Pontius as a Roman clan name and Pilatus possibly “armed with a javelin”).
• Period/Era: Roman Imperial Context (early 1st century AD)
• Main References: Matthew 27; Mark 15; Luke 23; John 18–19; Acts 3:13; 1 Timothy 6:13
• Key Connections: Jesus of Nazareth; Jewish chief priests and the Jerusalem crowd; Herod Antipas (Luke 23:6–12)

Who was Pontius Pilate?

Pontius Pilate was the Roman governor (prefect) of Judea under Tiberius Caesar.
He appears in the Gospels as the official who examined Jesus and handled the legal proceedings.
Though he stated he found no guilt in Jesus, he authorized the crucifixion.
His role highlights Roman authority in Jerusalem during the Second Temple Period.

Key Events & Achievements

• Event 1: Questioned Jesus and discussed kingship and truth during the Roman hearing (John 18:33–38).
• Event 2: Sent Jesus to Herod Antipas when he learned Jesus was from Galilee (Luke 23:6–7).
• Event 3: Delivered Jesus to be crucified and posted the charge identifying him as “King of the Jews” (John 19:16–22).

Life Lesson & Legacy

Pilate’s account in the Passion narratives shows how discipleship can be tested when public pressure and political authority conflict with known innocence.

Key Verse

"Pilate said to them, 'Then what shall I do with Jesus who is called Christ?' They all said, 'Let him be crucified!'" — Matthew 27:22, ESV