MPV Commentary

Jesus Arraigned before the Sanhedrim, Condemned to Die,

The events that unfolded after Jesus' arrest are recorded in all four Gospels, but with some discrepancies. If we were to rely solely on Matthew, Mark, and Luke, it would seem that our Lord was taken directly to Caiaphas, where he faced the Sanhedrin. However, this is not entirely accurate.

The Gospel of John provides a more detailed account, revealing that Jesus was first taken to Annas, the father-in-law of Caiaphas, who was the high priest at the time (John 18:13-14). Annas had previously held the office of high priest from A.D. 12 to 15, but was deposed by Valerius Gratius, Pilate's predecessor in Judea. Despite being removed from his position, Annas retained significant influence and power, even appointing several of his sons as high priests.

It is likely that Annas still wielded considerable authority, allowing him to be regarded as a kind of rightful high priest. Caiaphas, who had given counsel to the Jews that one man should die for the people (John 11:51), was present and involved in Jesus' interrogation.

Meanwhile, Peter followed Jesus from a distance into the palace of the high priest, where he warmed himself by the fire (Mark 14:53-54). The palace was an oriental-style house with a quadrangular interior court. Peter likely entered through a passage beneath the front of the house and sat with the servants, warming himself at the fire.

The details surrounding this scene are provided in other Gospels. John notes that the servants and officers stood around the fire, which had been made from coals (John 18:18). The cold night air was a factor, as Jerusalem's elevated location made it chilly during the Easter season. Peter joined them by the fire, likely to see the end of the proceedings or to gather information about Jesus' fate.

As Peter warmed himself, he may have been listening in on conversations about Jesus among the crowd. His presence there suggests that he was trying to stay close to his Lord while also being cautious not to draw attention to himself.

The scene shifts back to Jesus, who was interrogated by Annas (John 18:19-23). The high priest asked Jesus about his disciples and doctrine, likely attempting to entrap him into making statements that could be used against him at the trial.