Jesus is fully aware of the wickedness of the people around Him. They had just beaten Him until blood was pouring down His face. His back was deeply cut and bleeding after a whipping, bruises covered His body, and His beard had been ripped from his skin. Make no mistake, Jesus knew these people well. So, his plea for forgiveness is mind blowing! What motivates such radical forgiveness?
Well, many of us insist on proving our way does not work by insisting on pursuing our own way. The outcomes of that pursuit often leave us with baggage much heavier than we ever wanted to carry. The good news is seen in the garden of Eden, in the account of Balaam and his donkey, in Korah’s revolt, and even in the reality of the thief on the cross.
Notice how Paul addressed his audience with their background in mind. So, instead of beginning with Jesus as the Messiah, which would have the Jews in a defensive position at the start, he provides a review of their history. Since they are not defensive, they are listening to understand what he says.
