This is clearly a threat. Recognizing the danger, Pilate finally gives in and pronounces the sentence. Thus was Jesus, the Son of the living God, the Redeemer of the world, condemned to death by crucifixion. Over the centuries the denial of truth has spawned suffering and death. It is the innocent who pay the price of human hypocrisy.
Half measures are never enough.
Nor is it enough to wash one's hands. Responsibility for the blood of the just remains. Grant to us and to all the men and women of our time the grace to remain faithful to the truth. Do not allow the weight of responsibility for the sufferings of the innocent fall upon us and upon those who come after us. To you, O Jesus, just Judge, be honour and glory for ever and ever.