John 18:13-23

New International Reader's Version

¹³ and brought him first to Annas. He was the father-in-law of Caiaphas, the high priest at that time. ¹⁴ Caiaphas had advised the Jewish leaders that it would be good if one man died for the people.

Peter Says He Is Not Jesus’ Disciple

¹⁵ Simon Peter and another disciple were following Jesus. The high priest knew the other disciple. So that disciple went with Jesus into the high priest’s courtyard. ¹⁶ But Peter had to wait outside by the door. The other disciple came back. He was the one the high priest knew. He spoke to the servant woman who was on duty there. Then he brought Peter in.

¹⁷ She asked Peter, “You aren’t one of Jesus’ disciples too, are you?”

“I am not,” he replied.

¹⁸ It was cold. The slaves and officials stood around a fire. They had made it to keep warm. Peter was also standing with them. He was warming himself.

The High Priest Questions Jesus

¹⁹ Meanwhile, the high priest questioned Jesus. He asked him about his disciples and his teaching.

²⁰ “I have spoken openly to the world,” Jesus replied. “I always taught in synagogues or at the temple, where all the Jews come together. I didn’t say anything in secret. ²¹ Why question me? Ask the people who heard me. They certainly know what I said.”

²² When Jesus said that, one of the officials nearby slapped him in the face. “Is this any way to answer the high priest?” he asked.

²³ “Have I said something wrong?” Jesus replied. “If I have, then tell everyone what it was. But if I spoke the truth, why did you hit me?”