THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO MATTHEW - Chapter 26 - Verse 60

Verse 60. False witnesses. Witnesses that would accuse him of crime; of violation of the laws of the land or of God. We are not to suppose that they wished them to be false witnesses. They were indifferent, probably, whether they were true or false, if they could succeed in condemning him. The evangelist calls it false testimony, Before these witnesses were sought, we learn from Joh 18:19-23 that the high priest asked Jesus of his disciples, and his doctrine. Jesus replied, that he had taught openly in the temple, and in secret had said nothing; that is, he had no secret doctrines which he had not been willing openly to teach, and he referred them to those who had heard him. In a firm, dignified manner, he put himself on trial, and insisted on his rights. "If I have spoken evil, bear witness of the evil; but if well, why smitest thou me?" This conversation took place probably before the council was assembled, and during this time the denials by Peter occurred. Luke informs us, Lu 22:66 that the council came together as soon as it was day; that is, probably near the morning, or not far from break of day—after Peter had denied him, and gone out.

Found they none. That is, they found none on whose testimony they could with any show of reason convict him. The reason was, as Mark says, Mr 14:56 that "their witness agreed not together." They differed about facts, times, and circumstances, as all false witnesses do. Two witnesses were required by their law, and they did not dare to condemn him without conforming, in appearance at least, to the requirements of the law.

{a} "the last" Ps 27:12; 35:11