THEMES FROM THE SYNOPTIC GOSPELS AND THE ACTS OF THE APOSTLES ' (a) Relate the

Explanation

A. THE TRIAL OF JESUS BEFORE THE ŠANHEDRIN ACCORDING TO MARK (MARK 14:53-65)

i. After Jesus was arrested in the garden of Gethsemane, Peter followed at a distance into the courtyard of the high priest and there warmed himself at the fire.

ii. The Sanhedrin sought false testimony against Jesus to put him to death but they found none.

iii. The Sanhedrin was a body of religious leaders presided by the high priest.

iv. Many people came to give false evidence against him but their statements did not tally.

v. But finally, in accordance 1lse with Jewish law, two witnesses came forward and accused Jesus of saying that he would destroy the temple Jon in Jerusalem and in three days build another.

vi. The temple stood as the centre of Judaism; thus, Jesus was attacking the heart of the Jewish religion.

vii. The high priest then asked Jesus under oath whether he was the Messiah, the son of the Blessed One.

vii. Jesus replied affirmatively that he was the Messiah.

ix. He also said that they would see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of power and coming with the clouds of heaven.

x. The high priest then tore his garment as a sign of righteous indignation and asked if they needed a further evidence against this blasphemy.

xi. According to the high priest, Jesus had spoken blasphemy, so, he sought to the decision of the council.

xii. The whole council condemned Jesus and said that he deserved death as a ber penalty for blasphemy.

xiii. Eventually, some members of the Sanhedrin spat on him, while others covered his face and struck him to express their contempt and hate for his Messianic claims.

xiv. They asked Jesus to prophesy and mention the one who struck him.

xv. The guards likewise gave him some blows

B. REASONS WHY PEOPLE BEAR FALSE WITNESS AGAINST OTHERS

?. Hatred/character assassination/ defamation

ii. Envy/ jealousy

iii. Greed

iv. Vengeance/ retribution

v. Bribery/monetary gains

vi. To win favour

vi. Religious/tribal /filial reasons

vii. Coercion/ force

ix. Out of fear

x. For selfish interest

xi. To incriminate eliminate