John 19:5
Then came Jesus forth, wearing the crown of thorns, and the purple robe. And Pilate saith unto them, Behold the man!
John 19:5
Jesus presents to the crowd, wearing the crown and robe, “Behold the man!” Pilate’s words pivot from accusation to a stark portrayal of human brokenness and the vulnerability of the Son of God. The figure before them is a man, yet also the incarnate Word who will accomplish salvation. The scene invites contemplation of both Jesus’ humanity and his divine mission.
This moment foregrounds Christ’s two natures—fully human, fully divine—and the paradox of glory through weakness. It foreshadows the cross where suffering becomes the instrument of redemption. The exhortation to “Behold the man” invites us to truly see Jesus—not merely as a symbol of religious authority but as the Savior who bears humanity’s pain.
When you feel unseen or judged, you can look again at Jesus who walked in our shoes. Practical steps: practice daily contemplation of the Incarnation—God with us in adolescence, illness, loss, or joy. In your own life, choose to see others with compassionate eyes, recognizing the image of God in each person, even when they are difficult or flawed.
Cross-References
- Hebrews 4:15
- Colossians 1:15-20
- Isaiah 53:3
- John 1:14