8
Herod was delighted when Jesus showed up. He had wanted for a long time to see him, he'd heard so much about him. He hoped to see him do something spectacular.
9
He peppered him with questions. Jesus didn't answer - not one word.
10
But the high priests and religion scholars were right there, saying their piece, strident and shrill in their accusations.
11
Mightily offended, Herod turned on Jesus. His soldiers joined in, taunting and jeering. Then they dressed him up in an elaborate king costume and sent him back to Pilate.
12
That day Herod and Pilate became thick as thieves. Always before they had kept their distance.
13
Then Pilate called in the high priests, rulers, and the others
14
and said, "You brought this man to me as a disturber of the peace. I examined him in front of all of you and found there was nothing to your charge
15
And neither did Herod, for he has sent him back here with a clean bill of health. It's clear that he's done nothing wrong, let alone anything deserving death.
16
I'm going to warn him to watch his step and let him go."
18
At that, the crowd went wild: "Kill him! Give us Barabbas!"