The Death and Resurrection of the KingSample

Justice was bent

“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.’” (Matthew 26:65-66)

Long before Jesus was captured, the Jewish Council had already decided that He should be killed. But to keep up the appearance of justice, there had to be a trial. Moreover, the Jews did not have the authority to carry out executions themselves. For that, they needed permission from the Romans, who held political power. And they would get that permission only with a credible accusation.

But the very trial of Jesus was the best proof of His innocence. “The chief priests and the whole council were seeking false testimony against Jesus that they might put him to death, but they found none” (Matthew 26:59-60)

Imagine that. All these religious leaders were looking for reasons to kill Jesus, moreover they called many false witnesses, but no one could find anything wrong in Him. However, that did not change their minds. They asked Jesus under oath if He was “the Christ, the Son of God.” As soon as He confirmed that, they accused Him of blasphemy. And with that, His sentence was decided. He had to die. The Jewish leaders misused a commandment from Leviticus 24:16 to justify their decision.

Do you understand why Matthew cares to write down these details surrounding Jesus' trial?