Notes on Luke 23:1-11

whole company. The diversity of members among the Sanhedrin were unified against Jesus (22:66; see notes on 5:17; 20:1, 7). However, not all Jews were against Jesus (vv. 50-51). Pilate. The Roman governor over the region (see notes on 3:1; 13:1). Previously had seized Jewish temple taxes for public works projects, killed innocent Jews, and violated the temple (13:1; War 2.433). The Jewish leaders did not like Pilate, but they needed him. They wanted Jesus executed, but did not have the authority to do that apart from Pilate (John 18:31).

The accusations made against Jesus before Pilate are different than the one charge that upset the Jewish leaders. They convicted him of blasphemy (see note on 22:71; Matt. 26:65-67; John 10:30-33). But, they needed to portray Jesus as a threat to Rome in order to see him executed (see note on 23:1). Three charges were presented: turning people against Rome, refusing to pay taxes, and claiming to be a rival authority. Jesus was innocent of all these charges (vv. 4, 14-15, 22).

Jesus affirmed his kingship as the Christ. However, he was not a king as charged. His kingdom was spiritual in nature (John 18:36-37).

No charge against Jesus could be substantiated. The trial should have been over.

Herod was somewhat superstitious and enamored with spiritual things. He loved hearing John the Baptist preach, even though John condemned him for his sin (3:19)! After Herod had John killed, he thought Jesus might be John's ghost (Mark 6:16-39). His interest in Jesus was a fascination with miracles rather than settling the accusations against him.

By refusing to answer, Jesus fulfilled Isa. 53:7

chief priests. See note on 7:3. scribes. See note on 5:17.

elegant. Jesus' kingship was mocked by dressing him in regal attire.