Luke 23:4
What does Luke 23:4 mean?
A plain-English look at Luke 23:4 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Luke 23:4 means
Pilate publicly states he finds no fault in Jesus. After examining the charges, he perceives no crime deserving Roman punishment. This verdict is the first of several testimonies to Jesus’ innocence in the chapter. Yet innocence will not shield Him from injustice. The declaration highlights the tension between truth recognized and justice enacted. Pilate knows what is right but lacks the moral courage to stand by it. Jesus’ silence and integrity in the face of accusations make His righteousness evident even to a pagan governor. Still, political pressure and fear of unrest will push the proceedings toward the cross, where God’s redemptive purpose will unfold.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000And Pilate said unto the chief priests and the multitudes, I find no fault in this man.
KJV
King James Version · 1611Then said Pilate to the chief priests and to the people, I find no fault in this man.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901And Pilate said unto the chief priests and the multitudes, I find no fault in this man.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949And Pilate said to the chief priests and the people, In my opinion this man has done no wrong.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862And Pilate said unto the chief priests, and the multitude, `I find no fault in this man;'
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752And Pilate said to the chief priests and to the multitudes: I find no cause in this man.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890And Pilate said to the chief priests and the crowds, I find no guilt in this man.
Context
Following the initial interrogation, Pilate addresses the leaders and the gathered crowd. His statement is clear: the accusations do not hold. But this is not the end; the opponents are not satisfied. The narrative is building a pattern—formal recognition of Jesus’ innocence, followed by intensifying hostility. Next, the accusers will redouble their claims, widening the scope to show a nationwide disturbance and to connect Jesus to Galilee. That geographical detail becomes the hinge by which Pilate tries to avoid responsibility by sending Jesus to Herod.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Matthew 27:19
And while he was sitting on the judgment-seat, his wife sent unto him, saying, Have thou nothing to do with that righteous man; for I have suffered many things this day in a dream because of him.
- 1 Peter 1:19
but with precious blood, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot, even the blood of Christ:
- John 19:4
And Pilate went out again, and saith unto them, Behold, I bring him out to you, that ye may know that I find no crime in him.
- John 18:38
Pilate saith unto him, What is truth? And when he had said this, he went out again unto the Jews, and saith unto them, I find no crime in him.
- 1 Peter 3:18
Because Christ also suffered for sins once, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring us to God; being put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the spirit;
- Matthew 27:23
And he said, Why, what evil hath he done? But they cried out exceedingly, saying, Let him be crucified.
Related questions readers ask
Keep reading
Want to dig deeper? Explore Luke 23
Hand-picked devotionals, topical studies, and pastoral answers that draw on Luke 23.
Topics that quote it
Topic
Bible Verses About The Cross
The cross of Jesus Christ is central to Christian faith, representing God's love, sacrifice, and the path to salvation, forgiveness, and new life.
Topic
Bible Verses About Children
God’s Word provides profound insights into the rearing, value, and blessing of children, as well as the responsibilities of both parents and children.
Topic
Bible Verses About Communion
Communion, often called the Lord's Supper, is a sacred practice remembering Jesus' sacrifice and looking forward to His return.
What the Bible says about…
Verses for this moment
Verses for
Bible Verses for Trying to Forgive Someone
Honest scripture for when forgiveness feels impossible — or unfair.
Verses for
Bible Verses for Anxiety Before a Job Interview
Quiet your nerves and walk in with steady steps — six verses to pray on the way.
Verses for
Bible Verses for When Prayer Feels Empty
When the words won't come — scripture for the dry prayer life.