Jesus Is Questioned by the Council

(Matthew 26.57-68; Luke 22.54,55,63-71; John 18.13,14,19-24)

⁵³ Jesus was led off to the high priest. Then the chief priests, the nation's leaders, and the teachers of the Law of Moses all met together. ⁵⁴ Peter had followed at a distance, and when he reached the courtyard of the high priest's house, he sat down with the guards to warm himself beside a fire.

⁵⁵ The chief priests and the whole council tried to find someone to accuse Jesus of a crime, so they could put him to death. But they could not find anyone to accuse him. ⁵⁶ Many people did tell lies against Jesus, but they did not agree on what they said. ⁵⁷ Finally, some men stood up and lied about him. They said, ^58 (A) “We heard him say he would tear down this temple that we built. He also claimed that in three days he would build another one without any help.” ⁵⁹ But even then they did not agree on what they said.

⁶⁰ The high priest stood up in the council and asked Jesus, “Why don't you say something in your own defense? Don't you hear the charges they are making against you?” ⁶¹ But Jesus kept quiet and did not say a word. The high priest asked him another question, “Are you the Messiah, the Son of the glorious God?”^[a]

^62 (B) “Yes, I am!” Jesus answered.

⁶³ At once the high priest ripped his robe apart and shouted, “Why do we need more witnesses? ^64 (C) You heard him claim to be God! What is your decision?” They all agreed he should be put to death.

⁶⁵ Some of the people started spitting on Jesus. They blindfolded him, hit him with their fists, and said, “Tell us who hit you!” Then the guards took charge of Jesus and beat him.