What does John 19:14 mean?

John refers to "the day of Preparation of the Passover," which in this case seems to suggest a Friday morning, prior to the celebration of Passover. Instead of preparing to remember Israel's miraculous rescue from Egypt—commemorated by the sacrifice of spotless lambs (Exodus 12:5–6; 13:8–10)—Jerusalem's religious leaders are working to unjustly murder their own Messiah.

Scholars often debate what time system John uses. Most believe he uses a Roman arrangement, much like that used today, which begins at midnight. This would make "the sixth hour" a point in the early morning (John 18:28). Others believe John is using a Jewish reckoning, which would imply a time around noon.

Pilate's declaration of Jesus as "your King" is deliberately misleading. He knows, quite well, that Jesus has not made any claims to earthly political power (John 18:36–38). He also knows this crowd does not see Jesus as their Master. This is simply part of the governor's attempt to save face (John 19:12–13). Rather than risk a riot if he does what is right (Matthew 7:24), Pilate will use the excuse that Jesus is an insurgent. He can simultaneously degrade Jewish leaders (John 19:19–22) by claiming to execute their "King."