Illegal Trials

N.T.#651 "Illegal Trials"

Oct. 15, 2025 

Luke 22-Part 9 

LET IT GLOW

The first two trials didn't work in getting Jesus condemned to death. So the religious leaders named in verse 66 came together as the Sanhedrin, the supreme governing body of Israel, only limited by there authority of Rome. They kept trying to get rid of Jesus using intimidation, mockery, beatings, humiliation taunting, and blasphemy, but their schemes failed. At least a quorum of the council in its official chambers met that morning. They wanted Jesus to say out right that He was the Messiah. Then they had a case against Him.(verses 66-67)

How did Jesus reply?

• If I tell you, you won't believe me.
• And if I ask you a question, you won't answer.
• But from now on the Son of Man will be seated in the place of power at God's right hand. (verses 67-69) (Psalm 110:1)
• As it was shouted out that Jesus claimed to be the Son of God, He replied, "You say that I am."(verse 70, NLT)

The court took that as a yes, but He did not directly say it. They didn't need any mor witnesses. They heard it from His mouth. 

Do we tell others that Jesus is the Son of God? Believing He is the only way to heaven? Sharing that salvation is a free gift from God? 

LET IT GROW

This whole procedure broke many of the Jewish rules and laws:

1. No trials occurred during the night be fore the morning sacrifice.
2. No trials on the eve of a Sabbath or during feasts.
3. All trials were to be public, not secret.
4. All trials were to be held in the Hall of Judgment in the Temple area.
5. Capital cases required 23 judges minimum.
6. Accused people could not testify against themselves.
7. A witness was required to speak on behalf of the accused.

So far all of those were broken during Jesus' trials. The first two trials were held at night, during the Passover celebration, in secret, Jesus spoke for Himself, no witnesses for Him were present.

[Resource: Swindoll's Living Insights on Luke]

Unless you have studied this or been taught about the illegal trials, you would not know all of this.

Those Jews didn't care about Jesus, either. They wanted Him gone so they could control the people, the money, and Word.

LET IT GO

May we always stand firm on Your Word, Lord.

So much You went through to accomplish God's will of being the perfect sacrifice for people.

Glory to Your name!