[Good Friday] The Trial of Christ

Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the trial of Christ before His crucifixion, focusing on the key figures involved: Jesus, the Pharisees, and Pontius Pilate. He examines the Pharisees’ motivation rooted in self-righteousness and outward religiosity, highlighting their false accusations and refusal to recognize Christ’s innocence. Fr. Matthias explains Pilate’s fear-driven self-preservation, his political concerns about Jesus’ kingship, and his struggle to balance justice with maintaining power. Jesus’ response reveals His kingdom is not of this world and emphasizes His mission to bear witness to the truth, offering Pilate an invitation to salvation. This sermon draws lessons on human nature, spiritual blindness, and the contrast between Christ’s self-sacrificial love and the others’ varying motives. It challenges listeners to understand the significance of Christ’s trial and embrace the transformative power of His love and forgiveness