Jesus went before the Sanhedrin where the judgment was already predetermined. Jesus had challenged the religious authorities to the point where they really only had two options. They could either accept the truth of his word and deeds and repent or they would have to deal with Jesus once and for all. Choosing the latter revealed the extent of their desire to yield power and control over others. It also revealed their fear over the threat that Jesus had over their control. The end game of control is inevitably injustice and death.

Peter, confronted by a servant girl, could not overcome his own fears and disowned Jesus three times before the rooster crowed. Jesus, however, did not give in to fear. Jesus did not have any need to defend himself when false allegations were made, but when charged with being the Messiah, the Son of God, Jesus replied, "You have said so.."

In the midst of betrayal, injustice, abandonment, and physical suffering, Jesus held on to the truth above all. Jesus won the battle over fear and man's attempt to control at all costs, and revealed the true nature of the evil at work.


Application: Lord, have mercy on us, reveal the true nature of our hearts and the institutions we uphold. May we live by love and not by fear. Give us courage to stand up against any injustice we face.
One Word: Confront sin with truth.