Definition: Then said Pilate unto them, Take ye him, and judge him according to your law. The Jews therefore said unto him, It is not lawful for us to put any man to death:

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from John 18:31. It’s a really important part of the story of Jesus after his trial and crucifixion. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Situation: Jesus was being accused of blasphemy by Jewish authorities. They were trying to get him killed. Pilate, the Roman governor, is essentially saying, “We want to put you to death. We’re going to follow the rules we have – the laws of law.” What Happened Next: Jesus Responds: Jesus then says, "Then said Pilate unto them, Take ye him, and judge him according to your law." This means Pilate is demanding that Jesus be punished in a way that he interprets as fitting his legal code. The Jews Refuse: The Jewish people immediately refuse to obey Pilate. They say, "It is not lawful for us to put any man to death.” What it Means – A Deeper Look: This verse highlights a few key things: Pilate’s Authority: Pilate is in a very powerful position – he’s the governor and has the legal authority to decide who lives or dies. He's essentially saying, “I am the law.” The Jews' Plea for Mercy: The Jewish people are strongly opposed to being put to death. They believe Jesus deserves a more merciful judgment than a death sentence. They’re arguing that Jesus is innocent and should be allowed to live. Essentially, this verse shows a conflict between the laws of the Roman authorities and the moral beliefs of the Jewish community. It's a moment where someone tries to impose their own legal system on a situation where there's a deeper question of justice and mercy. Important Note: This is a complex passage with layers of meaning, and it’s been debated for centuries. Different interpretations exist, but this version captures the core idea of the struggle between law and conscience. --- Do you want me to: Explain why this verse is significant? Discuss the context surrounding this event in more detail?