
At the time of Jesus’ unjust arrest, Annas was no longer the acting high priest of Judaea. He had originally been appointed by Quirinius for the position, when the Romans took over rule of the Jews. He served for ten years, but was considered equal with his son-in-law Caiphas, even though he no longer held the title. The Jews venerated their priests no matter who was in control at the time.
He was of the Sadducean aristocracy. He was extremely wealthy and much of that wealth came from the sale of animal sacrifices to be used at the temple. Booths were set up where the average person could pay their way to forgiveness. We all know how upset Jesus was when entered the temple area and saw how it had been turned into a den of thieves. His indignation was righteous, but the fact that He voiced His feelings in such a way, must have turned the Sadducees against Him immediately. He was, after all, threatening their lucrative business and livelihood.
As Annas questioned Jesus, he asked Him about the number of followers Jesus had, in order to determine if what had been said was true – that the whole world was following Him. Jesus asked for witnesses to be brought forward in His defense.He also asked Jesus about His teachings – in hopes of having Him incriminate Himself as a false prophet or blasphemer. Jesus responds in quiet dignity, which really infuriates and confuses Annas. No one has ever stood so boldly against him.
At the same time as this initial interrogation was being held inside, Peter was in the courtyard, denying ever knowing His beloved Jesus – just as Jesus had predicted he would.
Are we like this sometimes too? We have so many opportunities to witness for Jesus and fear doing so.
Boy, the Republicans really need a dose of how Jesus responds under attack by His opponents! Everyone does, actually. A very informative post as always!
Steve
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Thanks, Steve. I found it so interesting that Peter’s denial occurred at the exact time that Jesus defended Himself against Annas. I also agree that Republicans as well as all our governing officials need to take a lesson from Jesus. Too bad most of them don’t know who He is.
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You are so right. And they talk about making America “great” and “whole” when they have no ability to do so without God. Yet they continue to distance themselves from Him. So sad!
It is even a greater ponder that Jesus shows His love over and over again. In Peter’s case, He restores Him to the fold even after a complete denial of faith! How great our Lord and Savior is…
I reblogged one of your posts today. I hope that was and will be okay with you now and in the future!
Steve
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Thanks for re blogging. I appreciate your encouragement and it’s definitely fine to do so in the future. I am honored that you think it’s worthy of spreading around. God bless you and have a great weekend!
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I do think many of your posts are worthy of “spreading around!” You are so welcome, and I thank you for allowing me to share some of your work.
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You are most welcome as well. I love the things you have to say too.
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Thank you very much! I try to write the things which God would have us know…
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And you certainly do. Nice to have a mutual admirations society here, isn’t it. All one in the Father.
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Thank you for shedding such light on this subject 🤔 It is still going on today with Christ under attack while others deny Him and sadly some are Christians 😐
Great post🤓❤️🤔🎈
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Thank you for your kind words. In rereading this account in John today I couldn’t help noticing the connecting of the two stories. We can always learn something new in God’s Word.
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Oh yes ma’am we can:))) I find it amazing how God speaks to us with a new insight. No matter if we have read it times before:) He knows what we need to know and when we are ready to learn it:))
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Amen😃😃
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