Refusing a Legacy
F. Hastings. Matthew 27:1-10 When the morning was come, all the chief priests and elders of the people took counsel against Jesus to put him to death:… I. AN ILLUSTRATION OF THE LACK OF CONSCIENCE ON THE PART OF THE PROFESSEDLY RELIGIOUS IS SEEN IN THE TREATMENT OF A GUILTY SOUL. They consulted about the money, but not the man. They ought to have rejoiced in the confession of Judas, and that he had time to save Jesus and himself. They discard their tool. We have frequently seen men of good position and of high moral principles associate on equal terms with those below them for civil or political purposes. The priests could not make him shoulder all the guilt. II. THE SCHEMES OF THE CONSCIENCELESS TO GET RID OF AN UNWELCOME LEGACY. Says one, "Pity to waste the money; " says another, "Never mind the past, it will serve a good end now." "Cast it into the Kedron." "Melt it over again, and thus get out the stain." "Buy the potter's parcel of ground." "Good suggestion," was the murmur. This will secure conscience and personal advantage at the same time. How conscientious were these unprincipled men. III. HOW DIRECT SIN AND CONSCIENCELESS SCHEMING ARE OVERRULED BY CHRIST. His betrayal causes a cemetery to be provided for the stranger and outcast; thus it is turned to good effect. (F. Hastings.) Parallel Verses KJV: When the morning was come, all the chief priests and elders of the people took counsel against Jesus to put him to death: WEB: Now when morning had come, all the chief priests and the elders of the people took counsel against Jesus to put him to death: