The last thing the religious leaders wanted to give Jesus was a fair trial. In other words, there was no ‘innocent till proven guilty’ approach to this trial at all. It had been predetermined that Jesus must die for he was a threat to the religious leaders way of life.
So what happened that made this trial illegal? First of all, false witnesses were sought out to testify against Jesus [Matthew 26:59] The usual practice was that the religious leaders would go thru an elaborate witness screening process to ensure justice for the person on trial.
Jesus was allowed no defense ... it was neither sought or allowed [Luke 22:67-71]. The trial was conducted at night [Mark 14:53-65; 15:1], which was illegal according to the religious leaders own laws. The high priest put Jesus under oath, but then incriminated him for what he said [Matthew 26:63-66]. Cases involving such serious charges were to be tried only in the high council’s regular meeting place, not the home of the high priest [Mark 14:53-65].
The blind obsession to kill Jesus led the religious leaders to pervert the justice they were appointed and sworn to protect. The trial was illegal according to their own laws.
Concluding our look at the Gospel of Matthew.
Matthew’s gospel was written specifically to the Jews. Its purpose was to prove to them that Jesus was the Messiah, the eternal King. Matthew was a Jewish tax collector who became one of Jesus’ disciples. The gospel formed a connection between the Old and New Testament mainly because of its strong emphasis on the fulfillment of scripture found in its pages.
As you read thru this gospel, take note of Matthew’s clear message: Jesus is the Christ, the King of kings and Lord of lords. Let Jesus victory over evil and death give you peace, knowing they have no hold on you. Climb the mountain of faith, learning and growing in the knowledge of Christ and most importantly, make Jesus the Lord and Savior of your life.
Up next we embark on our look at the Gospel of Mark. Until then, walk with the King and be a blessing.
In His name & for His glory,
Richard Keller
Bread of Life Ministries
Resource: The Life Application Study Bible
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