57 After Jesus had been arrested, he was led off to the house of Caiaphas the high priest. The nation’s leaders and the teachers of the Law of Moses were meeting there. 58 But Peter followed along at a distance and came to the courtyard of the high priest’s palace. He went in and sat down with the guards to see what was going to happen.
59 The chief priests and the whole council wanted to put Jesus to death. So they tried to find some people who would tell lies about him in court.26.59 some people who would tell lies about him in court: The Law of Moses taught that two witnesses were necessary before a person could be put to death (see verse 60).60 But they could not find any, even though many did come and tell lies. At last, two men came forward 61 Jn 2.19.and said, "This man claimed he could tear down God’s temple and build it again in three days."
62 The high priest stood up and asked Jesus, "Why don’t you say something in your own defense? Don’t you hear the charges they are making against you?" 63 But Jesus did not answer. So the high priest said, "With the living God looking on, you must tell the truth. Are you the Messiah, the Son of God?"26.63 Son of God: One of the titles used for the kings of Israel.
64 Dn 7.13."That is what you say!" Jesus answered. "But I tell all of you,
‘Soon you will see
the Son of Man
sitting at the right side26.64 right side: See the note at 22.44.
of God All-Powerful
and coming on the clouds
of heaven.’ "
65 Lv 24.15,16.The high priest then tore his robe and said, "This man claims to be God! We don’t need any more witnesses! You have heard what he said. 66 What do you think?"
They answered, "He is guilty and deserves to die!" 67 Is 50.6.Then they spit in his face and hit him with their fists. Others slapped him 68 and said, "You think you are the Messiah! So tell us who hit you!"
Peter Says He Doesn’t Know Jesus
Mark 14:66-72; Luke 22:56-62; John 18:15-18,25-27