Betrayal and Arrest

“As the hour of betrayal fast approaches, the record begins now with Jesus leading his disciples to an olive grove known as Gethsemane, on the Mount of Olives, just east of Jerusalem.  As they arrive in the quiet garden, Jesus’ heart is clearly heavy with the prospect of the events soon to take place.  Taking Peter, James, and John beyond the others, Jesus goes still further to a quiet place alone, where he agonizes in prayer with the Father.”

Read:  Matthew 26:36-56, Mark 14:32-52, Luke 22:40-53, John 18:1-12

Trial Before Sanhedrin

“Following Jesus’ arrest, John records that Jesus is first taken before Annas, who had been high priest and who continues to exercise great influence among the Jews, for questioning.Jesus is sent next to Annas’ son-in-law, Caiaphas, who presides over the Sanhedrin (also known as The Council), which is the Jewish Supreme Court.

Laced throughout the record of Jesus’ trial before the Jewish leaders is a moving account of Peter’s personal struggle with loyalty to Jesus.  On three separate occasions throughout this long night Peter will make vehement and even profane denials in order to shield himself.  His later feelings of remorse and his subsequent leadership in the establishment of the church will stand in clear contrast to Judas, who on this same day will be consumed by his guilt and take his own life.”

Read:  John 18:12-27, Matthew 26:57-75, Mark 14:53-72, Luke 22:54-71, Matthew 27:1-10, Mark 15:1