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The Desire of Ages
humanity was in this submission of Christ to all that He could endure
from the hands and hearts of men.
Christ had said nothing that could give His accusers an advantage;
yet He was bound, to signify that He was condemned. There must,
however, be a pretense of justice. It was necessary that there should be
the form of a legal trial. This the authorities were determined to hasten.
They knew the regard in which Jesus was held by the people, and feared
that if the arrest were noised abroad, a rescue would be attempted.
Again, if the trial and execution were not brought about at once, there
would be a week’s delay on account of the celebration of the Passover.
This might defeat their plans. In securing the condemnation of Jesus
they depended largely upon the clamor of the mob, many of them the
rabble of Jerusalem. Should there be a week’s delay, the excitement
would abate, and a reaction would be likely to set in. The better part
of the people would be aroused in Christ’s favor; many would come
forward with testimony in His vindication, bringing to light the mighty
works He had done. This would excite popular indignation against the
Sanhedrin. Their proceedings would be condemned, and Jesus would
be set free, to receive new homage from the multitudes. The priests
and rulers therefore determined that before their purpose could become
known, Jesus should be delivered into the hands of the Romans.
But first of all, an accusation was to be found. They had gained
nothing as yet. Annas ordered Jesus to be taken to Caiaphas. Caiaphas
belonged to the Sadducees, some of whom were now the most desper-
ate enemies of Jesus. He himself, though wanting in force of character,
was fully as severe, heartless, and unscrupulous as was Annas. He
would leave no means untried to destroy Jesus. It was now early
morning, and very dark; by the light of torches and lanterns the armed
band with their prisoner proceeded to the high priest’s palace. Here,
while the members of the Sanhedrin were coming together, Annas and
Caiaphas again questioned Jesus, but without success.
When the council had assembled in the judgment hall, Caiaphas
took his seat as presiding officer. On either side were the judges,
and those specially interested in the trial. The Roman soldiers were
stationed on the platform below the throne. At the foot of the throne
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stood Jesus. Upon Him the gaze of the whole multitude was fixed.
The excitement was intense. Of all the throng He alone was calm and