Jesus Revealed Pt. 17 - Abandoned - Really?Shembull

Jesus' Trial Before Annas  

Thoughts on the Passage

This is a short segment but John includes it and it gives some specific understanding about Jesus and the authority that He takes in this situation. I also included Paul’s response before the High priest as well – very similar in many ways.

First, Jesus is not afraid to declare the integrity of His ministry. He has not said one thing in public and another thing privately. That is such a powerful statement that I strive for and dearly want to be able to say when I stand before God. May my words be words of integrity and not change whether I am in public places or in private conversations.

Second, Jesus exposes the lack of integrity of the High Priest. The High Priest is responsible to find witnesses to condemn Jesus – it not Jesus’ responsibility to talk and self-incriminate Himself. This is the law and Jesus rebukes the High Priest for trying to pervert the law.

Third, Annas really has no authority. He is called the High Priest because he had held the position, but he was removed by the Romans and Caiaphas was installed as the High Priest. He is acting as though he has spiritual authority, but he does not. This is pride. It caused him to claim something he has no right to claim. Jesus does not give him the honor that the position is due (note the difference the way Paul responds before the real High Priest). Also, Jesus responds differently before Caiaphas later.

Fourth, we see the confidence and answers given by the Spirit to Jesus in times of intense pressure and severe hostility. This is in contrast to Peter and how he responds by denying Jesus before just the simple questions of a girl. It is such a confirmation that we can trust God to give us the right answers when we need them.

Application

Take time to thank God for the example of Jesus. We can focus on Peter – and sympathize with him in his difficult situations. We look to Jesus for the right answers.

Make it your commitment to make our public words match our private conversations. Let the answer never be different.

Time to Pray

Father, I see the example of Jesus contrasting with Peter – it makes me wonder where my focus would be in a difficult situation. Would I make it my excuse that I am in an unfamiliar situation and under intense pressure – or would I keep my eyes on Jesus? I am afraid to ask right now. I need time looking at Jesus every day so that I look to Him when a tough situation arises. I also ask that You bring to light any time my public words do not match my private words. Forgive me and help me be a person of integrity. I ask in Jesus’ name, Amen.