March 28, AD 2011

If Jesus Stood Trial Today
Frank Allnutt

If a re-trial of Jesus Christ took place today in America, how would it play out? Based on a prevailing world view, here’s a scenario:

Introduction

A Pastors’ Council was formed to assemble a legal defense team comprised of qualified Christian Constitutional attorneys—all of whom are highly regarded for their work on behalf of Christian organizations and conservative political interest groups. After a lengthy appellate process, the case of Jesus will finally be heard by the Supreme court.

A defense strategy has been constructed in preparation of going before the Supreme Court. But first, it must receive approval of the Pastors’ Council.

The Defense Plan

The Defense Plan is based on what the defense team considers to be two sacrosanct documents: the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution.

Defense based on
the Declaration of Independence
There are two support points the Defense cites from the Declaration of Independence: First, that since all men are created equal, the law must apply in equal measure to Jesus, as it must for all men—no more, no less. Second—and this evolves from the first, Jesus, as with all men, is endowed by God with certain “unalienable rights, that among these are, life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness—That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men....”

So, not only does Jesus have the God-endowed “liberty” to preach what He wants, but government has the responsibility of securing that right.

Defense based on
the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution
The Defense also cites three applicable “freedoms” guaranteed in the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution: “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof, or abridging the freedom of speech...or the right of the people peaceably to assemble.”

Obviously, the government, as a protector of human rights, cannot also infringe those rights. Thus, Jesus has the right to establish a religion and practice it, and to preach to His followers who gather to hear from Him in peaceful assembly.

Defense based on
principles of immunity

1. Jesus claims to have His own kingdom—a claim supported by millions of Americans. Therefore, Jesus qualifies for diplomatic immunity.
   
   
2. The “Creator” mentioned in the Declaration of Independence refers to Jesus Christ, who is described as such in the Bible (John 1:1-4). It is non-contradictory that the “Creator” is superior to that which He has created. Therefore, the laws of created man cannot apply to Jesus Christ their creator.
   

The Defense will move for dismissal
After arguing that the Supreme Court has no jurisdiction over Jesus Christ, His Defense will petition the Court to dismiss all charges against Jesus.

The Response of the Pastors’ Council

All of the Pastors approve the Defense Plan—with one exception. Having undergone a change-of-heart, the hold-out Pastor explains why he cannot accept the Defense Plan:

Change-of-Heart Pastor: “Before our Lord’s crucifixion, He prayed out of His humanity: “My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; yet not as I will, but as Thou wilt”—Matthew 26:39. Now, we all know that Jesus is the same yesterday and today and forever”—Hebrews 13:8. Given that, we can assume with all certainty that Jesus will not defend Himself as a mere man on the basis of so-called ‘human rights’ as perceived by man, nor will He defend Himself on the basis that, as the Son of God through whom all things were created, He is above the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court. Rather, He would now, as He did before, submit to the will of His Father and allow Himself to be tried and convicted.”

Another Pastor: “What you argue is true, of course, but there is more at stake here. Think of the implication—the precedent He would set for all Christians, based on the truth of His own teaching. For He taught His disciples: ‘Remember the word that I said to you, “a slave is not greater than his master.” If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you.... But all these things they will do to you for My name’s sake, because they do not know the One who sent me’ —John 15:20, 21.”

Change-of-Heart Pastor: “What you say is true, brother, that our Master chose to do His Father’s will rather than demand any so-called ‘unalienable rights.’ My point is simply this: He expects the same loving obedience of us, His servants.” The Pastor looked down at the open Bible on the table before him and said: "Peter wrote to this very point; permit me to read from First Peter, Chapter Two, verses twenty and twenty-one: 'For what credit is there if, when you sin and are harshly treated, you endure it with patience? But if when you do what is right and suffer for it you patiently endure it, this finds favor with God. For you have been called for this purpose, since Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example for you to follow in His steps.'"

Epilog

The Supreme Court is unlikely to re-try the person of Jesus in absentia; nevertheless, the name of Jesus continues to be tried in the courts...and in darkened hearts of stone. And true Christians continue to walk in the ways of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

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©Copyright AD2011 Frank Allnutt. All rights reserved. Content herein may be quoted, subject to the "fair use" doctrine of U.S. Copyright Law.

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