Bible Question: Looking at all the gospels, each has a version concerning the Passion of Christ. The trials attended by Jesus vary from chapter to chapter; how many trials did he appear before? |
Bible Answer: Greetings swaimj, Here is the chronilogical sequence of that night: 1) The Last supper - where Christ washed the feet of the disciple, broke bread and prayed. 2) He then went to the garden to pray. 3) In the garden He was arrested by the Jews 4) From there He went to appear before Annas (who was Caiaphas father-in-law) where the first Jewish trial was. This was an informal examination. 5) Annas sent Him to appear before Caiaphas which was the 2nd Jewish trial. The purpose of this trial was to seek false testimony against Him. Theyt chargeed HIm with blasphemy instead (He supposedly blasphemized when He said that He would tear down the temple in 3 days). The bottom line was that they just wanted to put Him to death. Blasphemy was an excuse for them but in reality He died for our sins. 6) Caiphas then sent Him to Pilate. This was the first Roman trial. Pilate interagated Him and found no fault in Him. 7) Pilate sent Him to Herod where He was tried again. Herod was happy to see Him because he was convinced that he would be able to see a miracle. But Christ remained silent. 8) Herod sent Him back to Pilate where He had His second Roman trial. Pilate wanted to let Him go because he knew He was not guilty of anything and he had recognized the jealousy of the Jews. Even his wife told him not to become involved. Pilate was starting to believe that He was the Son of God. Pilate tried to let Him go by proclaiming His innocence so he had Him beat to appease the people. He also offered to release Him according to the Jewish Passover custom. However, when the people yelled if you let this man go you are not Caesar's friend - Whoever makes himself a king speaks against Caesar. Pilate then washed his hands of the affair and handed Him over to the Jews who crucified Him. It is important to note that whole trial was illegal according to Jewish law for the following reasons: 1) Before the trial began it was determinded that Jesus was guilty. Law was that you had to be proven guilty 2) False witnesses were brought to testify against Jesus. 3) No defense for Jesus sought or allowed 4) Trial conducted at night - according to their laws trials must be held during the day 5) High Priest put Jesus under oath then incriminated Him for what He said. 6) Serious charges were only to be tried in the Sanhedrin's meeting place, not in the high priests palace. Hope this answers your questions. Susan |