And though they found no cause of death in him, yet desired they Pilate that he should be slain.

ACTS 13:28KJV
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Acts 13:28 (KJV)

What does Acts 13:28 mean?

Acts 13:28 says that although the authorities could not find any legitimate reason for Jesus to be sentenced to death, they still asked Pilate, the Roman governor, to have him executed. The verse highlights that Jesus was put to death despite his innocence according to the legal standards of the time.

Paul is speaking to a Jewish audience in a synagogue, recounting the events of Jesus’ trial and crucifixion. He points out that the leaders in Jerusalem, even after examining Jesus and finding no cause for the death penalty, insisted that Pilate carry out the execution. This sets up the injustice of Jesus’ death and prepares the listeners for Paul’s message about the resurrection.

The Greek behind Acts 13:28

  • "αἰτία" (aitia, G156): This word means "cause" or "reason." In this context, it refers to a legal ground or charge worthy of death. The verse stresses that no valid accusation was found against Jesus.
  • "θάνατος" (thanatos, G2288): This is the Greek word for "death." Here, it refers specifically to the death penalty, making clear that the authorities could not justify such a sentence.
  • "Πιλᾶτος" (Pilatos, G4091): This is the Greek form of "Pilate," the Roman governor. Mentioning Pilate underscores that the Jewish leaders needed Roman approval for an execution, highlighting the political dynamics.
  • "ἀναιρεθῆναι" (anairethēnai, G337): This verb means "to be killed" or "to be put to death." It emphasizes that the request was for Jesus to be executed, not just punished.

Why Acts 13:28 matters

  • Acts 13:28 clarifies that Jesus’ death was not because of any crime or guilt on his part, but because of the insistence of the authorities, highlighting the injustice of the crucifixion.
  • The verse connects the story of Jesus to the larger narrative Paul is telling, showing continuity between Israel’s history and the events of Jesus’ life and death.
  • By mentioning Pilate and the lack of legal cause, Paul appeals to both Jewish and Roman understandings of justice, making his message relevant to a mixed audience.