Matthew 26:57

Verses 57-75. The trial of our Lord before the council, and the denial of Peter happening at the same time, might be related one before the other, according to the evangelists' pleasure. Accordingly, Matthew and Mark relate the trial first, and Peter's denial afterwards; Luke mentions the denial first, and John has probably observed the natural order. The parallel places are recorded in Mk 14:53-72, Lk 22:54-71, Jn 18:13-27.

Verse 57. To Caiaphas. John says, that they led him first to Annas, the father-in-law of Caiaphas. This was done, probably, as a mark of respect, he having been high priest, and perhaps distinguished for prudence, and capable of advising his son-in-law in a difficult case; and the Saviour was detained there probably until the chief priests and elders were assembled.

The High Priest. Mt 26:3. John says, he was high priest for that year. Annas had been high priest some years before, in the time of our Saviour the office was frequently changed by the civil ruler. This Caiaphas had prophesied that it was expedient that one should die for the people. Jn 11:49,50.

The Scribes and the elders. The men composing the great council of the nation or sanhedrim. Mt 5:22. It is not probable that they could be immediately assembled; and some part of the transaction respecting the denial of Peter probably took place while they were collecting.

(z) "And they" Mk 14:53, Lk 22:54, Jn 18:12

Luke 22:54

Verses 54-62. Mt 26:57, also Mt 26:58-75

Verse 54.

John 18:13

Verse 13. To Annas first. Probably his house was nearest to them, and he had great authority and influence in the Jewish nation. He had been himself a long time high-priest; he had had five sons who had successively enjoyed the office of high-priest, and that office was now filled by his son-in-law. It was of importance, therefore, to obtain his sanction and counsel in their work of evil.

That same year. Jn 11:14.

(k) "Annas" Lk 3:2 (1) "that same year" "And Annas send Christ bound unto Caiphas, the high priest," Jn 18:24
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