Humble Hero

The Injustice of Christ’s Trial

The Sanhedrin had pronounced Jesus worthy of death, but it was contrary to Jewish law to try a prisoner by night. In legal condemnation nothing could be done except in the light of day and in a full session of the council. Despite this, the Savior was now treated as a condemned criminal, to be abused by the lowest of humankind. Through the open courtyard, Jesus was taken to the guardroom, surrounded by people mocking His claim to be the Son of God. They jeeringly repeated His words, “Coming on the clouds of heaven.” While in the guardroom awaiting His legal trial, Jesus was not protected, and the ignorant rabble took the opportunity to reveal all the satanic elements of their nature. Christ’s godlike bearing filled them with an insane rage. Mercy and justice were trampled upon. Never was a criminal treated in so inhuman a manner as was the Son of God. HH 326.4

But no enemy’s hand could have dealt the blow that gave Jesus the deepest pain. While He was undergoing the examination before Caiaphas, one of Christ’s own disciples had denied Him. HH 326.5

Peter and John had dared to follow—at a distance—the mob that had Jesus in their custody. The priests recognized John and let him into the hall, hoping that as he witnessed his Leader’s humiliation, he would scorn the idea that such a one could be the Son of God. John spoke in favor of Peter and gained an entrance for him also. HH 326.6

In the courtyard a fire had been kindled, for it was cold, being just before dawn. People gathered around the fire, and Peter presumptuously joined them. By mingling with the crowd, he hoped to be taken for one of those who had brought Jesus to the judgment hall. HH 327.1