This episode reveals Pilate's encounter with Jesus. Pilate had the power of both judge and jury, but he was filled with fear. Pilate was afraid of the mob.  Pilate was afraid of going against his wife's counsel. Pilate was afraid of Caesar. Pilate was afraid to release Jesus and he was afraid to condemn Jesus. Pilate was caught between the evil schemes of Jewish leaders and the incredible innocence of Jesus character. Pilate was caught between the terrible cries of the mob and the tender appeal of Jesus. Pilate was caught between the dangerous anger of  Caesar and the possibility Deity of Jesus. Jesus appeals to Pilate. Jesus appears to be the one on trial, but ultimately it is Pilate who is on trial... facing either being released from the sentence of death or being condemned to die in his sins.