Rulers and official · New Testament
The Story of Pontius Pilate
Also: Pilate, Pontio Pilato (Kiswahili)
Roman governor of Judea who sentenced Jesus to be crucified.
Editorial text in English. Scripture is quoted from the version you choose; references stay the same in every version.
Introduction
Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea when John began preaching. He questioned Jesus, found no basis for a charge, yet handed him over to be crucified to satisfy the crowd. Luke 3:1John 18:28–38Mark 15:15
He allowed Joseph of Arimathea to take Jesus' body. Mark 15:43–45
Told in: Mark
Life at a glance
- Office
- Governor of Judea Luke 3:1
Only what Scripture records. Where the Bible is silent, nothing is filled in.
Follow the life of Pontius Pilate
Events in the order Scripture presents them. Expand an event to read its passage here, or open the chapter in the reader.
The trial of Jesus
Pilate questions Jesus, offers to release him, washes his hands in Matthew's account, and hands him over to be crucified.
More about this event
Parallel account: Matthew 27:11–26 · Luke 23:1–25 · John 18:28–19:16
People: Jesus
Releases the body
Pilate confirms Jesus' death and gives the body to Joseph of Arimathea.
Mentioned across the Bible
Later passages that recall, mention or interpret Pontius Pilate. These are not new events in the person’s lifetime.
Later recollection
- Acts 4:27
- 1 Timothy 6:13 — Christ Jesus made the good confession before Pontius Pilate.
Family and relationships
- JesusSentenced himMark 15:15
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