“Not guilty!” It’s a phrase in a courtroom that can bring a sigh of relief for a person accused of a crime. It’s a phrase that Pilate said twice to Jesus’ accusers. In Luke 23:4 he said, “I find no guilt in this man (NASB).” In Luke 23:14 he said it again, “I have found no guilt in this man regarding the charges which you make against Him.”
Yet his accusers insisted he was guilty (23:5). When Herod questioned Jesus, they were there “accusing Him vehemently (23:10).” When Pilate professed Jesus’ innocence a second time, telling them, “nothing deserving death has been done by Him (23:15).” When Pilate again stated Jesus’ innocence: “Why, what evil has this man done? I have found in Him no guilt demanding death (23:22),” the crowds demanded that he be crucified.
Our accuser the evil one persists in trying to convince us of our guilt. As sinful people, we are deserving of eternal death. Guilty as charged. Yet Jesus, the one who did nothing to deserve death, died on the cross to save us from our sin. When we believe in Jesus and choose to follow him, salvation is ours. Because of Jesus, even though our accusers persist in claiming we deserve death, we are given the verdict, “Not guilty.” We are are set free.
© 2020 CGThelen
140 Character Christian 
To have died for us is something immeasurable to my own mind. I had another rough day today, not for any easily discernible reason, so thank you for the reminder of the truth, of what really matters, and the salvation that is ours if we follow Jesus.
Sorry to hear you had a rough day. I often remind myself of John 8:32: “and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.” God’s truth frees us from Satan’s deception. Praying the peace of Christ will be with you and shield you. Thanks for sharing. Blessings.
Thank you for this, CG. Satan does indeed use guilt and shame (both real and false) to influence us. Thank God we have an advocate in Christ. The outcome has already been decided! Praise God!!
Good to remember the outcome has already been decided. Thanks for the reminder and the comment. Blessings.
Hallelujah! What a Saviour and what an amazing Father God. I was reading Isaiah 53 just the other day, it covers this beautifully. God bless you CG.
Yes, Isaiah 53 is a great passage. Such a loving God we serve. Thanks for sharing your thoughts. Blessings.