Pilate is trying to find a way out of dealing with Jesus. He knows Jesus is innocent, but can't appease the crowd. What if Jesus is who he says he is? How can he convict an innocent man? How can he keep his constituents happy? Who is this Jesus and where is he from? Pilate loses his integrity unless he releases Jesus. He can't release Jesus without infuriating the crowd. Jesus will not answer him. Jesus refuses to be a pawn in Pilate's political game. He will follow the will of his Father and no one will deter his commitment to righteousness. Facing a choice about Jesus' identity, Pilate the ruler shows fear, gives up his integrity, and becomes a prisoner to the fickle will of the mob. In the face of death, Jesus shows courage, displays integrity, and demonstrates the freedom to be who he is truly committed to be no matter the will of the crowd. The stark differences in their choices and character remind us of the importance of the choices we make about Jesus and the will of God.