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Matthew 26:57-68
Jesus Before Caiaphas and the Council Then those who had seized Jesus led him to Caiaphas the high priest, where the scribes and the elders had gathered. And Peter was following him at a distance, as far as the courtyard of the high priest, and going inside he sat with the guards to see the end. Now the chief priests and the whole council were seeking false testimony against Jesus that they might put him to death, but they found none, though many false witnesses came forward. At last two came forward and said, “This man said, ‘I am able to destroy the temple of God, and to rebuild it in three days.’” And the high priest stood up and said, “Have you no answer to make? What is it that these men testify against you?” But Jesus remained silent. And the high priest said to him, “I adjure you by the living God, tell us if you are the Christ, the Son of God.” Jesus said to him, “You have said so. But I tell you, from now on you will see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of Power and coming on the clouds of heaven.” Then the high priest tore his robes and said, “He has uttered blasphemy. What further witnesses do we need? You have now heard his blasphemy. What is your judgment?” They answered, “He deserves death.” Then they spit in his face and struck him. And some slapped him, saying, “Prophesy to us, you Christ! Who is it that struck you?” |
The scenes leading up to Jesus’ incarceration have all the hallmarks of an unjust trial. A corrupt judge, a stacked jury, and desperate attempts to fabricate evidence that could be used as the grounds for the most serious punishment possible: an execution. To make matters worse the verdict has been decided before the evidence is heard, and the sentencing lies outside the powers of the Jewish court. Not satisfied by even the overreach of the High Priest’s powers, the mob who had seized Jesus, assaulted their high-profile prisoner and revelled in their cruelty. In normal times a prisoner facing such accusations would quickly offer a rebuttal of the libellous falsehoods and appeal to a greater sense of justice. Jesus, however, remains silent when faced with such slander. He was oppressed, and afflicted, yet he opened not His mouth. Jesus is in control of the situation. He knows what lies ahead.
This passage reminds us of the Hymn “Man of Sorrows”
Silent as He stood accused
Beaten, mocked, and scorned
Bowing to the Father's will
He took a crown of thorns
As we approach this Easter time may we identify and stand with Christ. Maybe Christ is asking us to share in His sufferings. Maybe He is asking us to make a stand for Jesus in our homes or workplaces. May we do so with grace and humility as Christ himself “Bowed to the Father’s will”.
Cameron and Rachel F