A LAST GAMBLE
Read Mark 14:61b-65
"Again the high priest asked Him, "Are You the Christ, the Son of the Blessed?" (Mark 14:61)
The high priest's case against Jesus is unraveling right in front of him. Despite the false witnesses he has called forward, he lacks the agreement between two witnesses which the Jewish Law requires. With no other options left, Caiaphas takes a big gamble- an all or nothing bet. He turns to Jesus, puts Him under oath, and asks Him if He is the promised Christ, the Son of God- whose name is too holy for the high priest to speak.
Jesus could deny it- and walk away free. But Jesus will never deny the truth. He answers "I am." But before the high priest can tear his garments in shock and the court raise their outraged objection, the previously silent Jesus pours out a powerful warning of the day He will return as their Judge, "and you will see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of Power, and coming with the clouds of heaven."
Thinking the case is now sown up, the high priest declares all his fellow council members witnesses and asks their verdict. They condemn Jesus of Nazareth guilty of blasphemy- claiming to be God's Son. He deserves death.
Now they begin abusing the Christ before they hand Him over to Pilate. With blows, strikes and spitting they pour out the rage they have held for so long-and Jesus begins suffering the physical abuse which will set us free from God's wrath forever.
THE PRAYER: Lord Jesus, You made the good confession, warning the Jewish leaders of their own coming Judgment. Help me to heed Your warning and turn to You in faith before it is too late. Amen.
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