King James Version
What Does John 19:10 Mean?
“Then saith Pilate unto him, Speakest thou not unto me? knowest thou not that I have power to crucify thee, and have power to release thee?”
Context
8
When Pilate therefore heard that saying, he was the more afraid;
9
And went again into the judgment hall, and saith unto Jesus, Whence art thou? But Jesus gave him no answer.
10
Then saith Pilate unto him, Speakest thou not unto me? knowest thou not that I have power to crucify thee, and have power to release thee?
11
Jesus answered, Thou couldest have no power at all against me, except it were given thee from above: therefore he that delivered me unto thee hath the greater sin.
12
And from thenceforth Pilate sought to release him: but the Jews cried out, saying, If thou let this man go, thou art not Caesar's friend: whosoever maketh himself a king speaketh against Caesar.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(10) **Speakest thou not unto me?**—The position of the pronoun in the original is strongly emphatic—“To *me* dost Thou not speak?” Pilate is true to the vacillating character which now as man trembles before One who may be a Being from the other world, and now as Roman governor expects that Being to tremble before him.
**Knowest thou not that I have power to crucify thee, and have power to release thee?**—The text of the better MSS. inverts the order, reading,. . . . *have power to release Thee, and have power to crucify Thee.* This is the more natural order of thought—“Thy life is in my power; yea, and Thy death also.”
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of John. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
John 19:10 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to John 19:10
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge