Charles Ellicott Commentary Matthew 27:18

"For he knew that for envy they had delivered him up." — Matthew 27:18 (ASV)

He knew that for envy—Pilate knew enough about the accusers to see through the hollowness of their pretended zeal for their own religion or for the authority of the emperor. He found their real motive was “envy”—the fear of losing influence and power if the work of the new Teacher were to continue.