Matthew 26:57-75
Dear RTB’ers,
Today’s first verse, Then those who had seized Jesus led Him to Caiaphas the high priest, where the scribes and the elders had gathered. (v. 57) The scribes and elders had gathered already, very likely through the night and early into the morning, yet they had not been part of the rabble crowd that had arrested Jesus: While He was still speaking, Judas came, … and with him a great crowd with swords and clubs, from the chief priests and the elders of the people. (v. 47, yesterday) A big difference, “from” the chief priests and elders, not “with” the rabble crowd. Cowards!
Caiaphas’ question to Jesus was specific, I adjure You by the living God, tell us if You are the Christ, the Son of God. (v. 63b) My Study Bible noted that the form of Caiaphas’ question was such that Jesus was legally bound to answer. And He did, and was summarily accused of blasphemy.
Peter’s denial. And Peter remembered the statement that Jesus had made: “Before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times.” And he went out and wept bitterly. (v. 75) Matthew’s account falls a bit short of Luke’s statement of Peter’s departure, And immediately, while he was still speaking, a rooster crowed. And then the Lord turned and looked at Peter. (Luke 22:60b-61a) Peter remembering Jesus’ statement (Matthew) is different than Jesus turning and looking at Peter (Luke). When I visualize that scene, Jesus turning to look at Peter, I fully feel Peter’s remorse, for him to have felt Jesus’ eyes on him as he had denied Him. What a sad moment. And he went out and wept bitterly.
Blessings.
See also: