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Explore the unjust trials of Jesus and how He responded with grace and humility. Discover the importance of seeking justice and following Jesus' example in the face of injustice. Join us at Grace Bible Church as we glorify God by making disciples of Jesus Christ.
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Grace Bible ChurchGlorifying God by Making Disciples of Jesus Christ
No Justice Here!Mt 26:57-68; Mk 14:53-65; Lk 22:54, Jn 18:13-24 Justice is: “just behavior or treatment” “the administration of the law or authority in maintaining this.” “The quality of being just, impartial or fair” The equal and impartial application of the law (and not equal results based on social theories)
The Jewish Justice System The justice system of ancient Israel was based on the commands and principles in the Law of Moses Local “Sanhedrin” of 23 and a national Sanhedrin of 71 were formed to administer justice
The Jewish Justice System Many practices developed to ensure fairness and impartiality as required by Mosaic Law False witnesses would suffer the punishment that would have been given to the falsely accused
The Jewish Justice System The court sought to be both just and merciful in reflection of the character of God Additional precautions were taken in cases that could result in capital punishment
The Jewish Justice System Jesus’ character shines as He endures the injustice of the religious leaders that did not follow Jewish justice
Brought to AnnasJohn 18:12-14 Jesus was arrested only because He allowed it - He was in control even when being tried The position of high priest had become quasi-political with Annas in the position from AD 6-15
Brought to AnnasJohn 18:12-14 Annas remained the dominant power even after he was deposed, and very wealthy from the temple sacrifices Regardless of who was high priest, Annas was the first to be consulted, and Jesus is brought to him
Peter’s First DenialJohn 18:15-18 Peter follows at a distance and gains access to Annas’ courtyard through John’s intervention Peter is questioned by the slave-girl doorkeeper and he makes his first denial of knowing Jesus
Tried by AnnasJohn 18:19-24 The trial is illegal: Annas has no legal standing. It is night. A person cannot testify against himself
Tried by AnnasJohn 18:19-24 Jesus properly points out the need for witnesses and is unjustly struck by an officer Annas’ political power is seen in being called the high priest when in fact that title belonged to Caiaphas
Tried by AnnasJohn 18:19-24 Jesus remains humble despite the illegal actions and treatment for He trusted God to carry out His will
An Illegal MeetingMatthew 26:57, Mark 14:53, Luke 22:54 They are meeting at night at a private home in contradiction to the established Jewish justice system
Peter’s RecklessnessMatthew 26:58; Mark 14:54; Luke 22:54 After already denying Jesus once, Peter should not have stayed to see the outcome & fulfill his boast
Tried by CaiaphasMatthew 26:59-68; Mark 14:55-65 This was an illegal trial on every count. It was at a private home. It was at night. They were soliciting accusations. They received testimony from witnesses demonstrated to be false
Tried by CaiaphasMatthew 26:59-68; Mark 14:55-65 Even with false witnesses, they could not find credible charges against Jesus - evidence of being sinless Two men accuse Jesus in regard to destroying the temple, but they were even wrong & inconsistent in this
Tried by CaiaphasMatthew 26:59-68; Mark 14:55-65 Caiaphas illegally strives to get Jesus to witness against Himself There were many witnesses to Jesus’ claims and demonstration to be the Christ, the Son of God Responding to Caiaphas’ adjuration, He admits His identity & warns them from Psalm 110:1 & Dan. 7:13
Tried by CaiaphasMatthew 26:59-68; Mark 14:55-65 Caiaphas should have been fearful at what Jesus said, instead he feigns offense accusing Jesus of blasphemy The charge was illegal: Jesus’ claim is true. A defendant could not be convicted on his own testimony
Tried by CaiaphasMatthew 26:59-68; Mark 14:55-65 Caiaphas tore his robes and broke the commandment in Leviticus 21:10 not to do so The injustice of the trial was made worse by the mocking that followed that displayed their evil hearts
Tried by CaiaphasMatthew 26:59-68; Mark 14:55-65 Jesus maintained His composure because He had already prepared Himself for this in the garden
Conclusions Strive for justice, but don’t expect it at the hands of men - follow Jesus’ example in responding to injustice Injustice can separate you from many things, but it cannot separate the believer from the Lord Jesus Christ
Grace Bible ChurchGlorifying God by Making Disciples of Jesus Christ