When the Roman officer overseeing the execution saw what had happened, he worshiped God and said, "Surely this man was innocent" (Luke 23:47).
Soldiers are usually hardened people. Warfare makes those involved tougher than they would otherwise be. Being a soldier is not for the faint-hearted.
The officer in charge of Jesus Christ's crucifixion was of a senior rank, a centurion. He had been part of military life for many years and had probably served in various places. To be put in control of a hundred soldiers meant that he was no fool. To be in control, often in difficult circumstances, you had to be sharp-witted. You had to earn the respect of those under you.
This officer probably knew something about the farce that Jesus' hearing turned out to be. It is very likely that he saw right through the hypocrisy of the priests and of Pilate and was on guard while his soldiers mocked Jesus. He was in no way unfamiliar with death, and blood was nothing new to him. It was highly probable that he had heard about all the miracles.
While watching Jesus' last moments, Pilate quietly spoke words that revealed insight and conviction. He could see that Jesus was not an ordinary criminal and he was undoubtedly disappointed that Roman justice had sunk so low to allow this good man to die. His considered opinion was "surely this man was innocent" (v. 47). And, like thousands through the ages, he praised God. Join him today in doing the same!
Lord, our God, we live to praise You. Amen.
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