Albert Barnes Commentary John 19:5

"Jesus therefore came out, wearing the crown of thorns and the purple garment. And [Pilate] saith unto them, Behold, the man!" — John 19:5 (ASV)

Behold the man. It is probable that Pilate pointed to the Saviour, and his object evidently was to move them to compassion and to convince them, by a sight of the Saviour Himself, that He was innocent. Therefore, he brought Him out with the crown of thorns, the purple robe, and with the marks of scourging. Amid all this, Jesus was meek, patient, and calm, giving evident proofs of innocence. Pilate's conduct was as if he had said:

"See! The man whom you accuse is arrayed in a gorgeous robe, as if a king. He has been scourged and mocked. All this He has borne with patience. See! How calm and peaceful! Behold His countenance! How mild! His body scourged, His head pierced with thorns! Yet in all this He is meek and patient. This is the man whom you accuse; and He is now brought out, so that you may see that He is not guilty."