Before the Sanhedrin—Matthew 26:57–68 Open It 1. *What is the most famous “miscarriage of justice” you have ever witnessed or heard about? 2. When in your life have you ended up suffering because you tried to help someone else? 3. In what ways are lies and gossip damaging? Explore It 1. *After being arrested, where was Jesus taken? (26:57) 2. Who was assembled where Jesus was taken? Why? (26:57, 59) 3. Who had followed Jesus at a distance? Where was he? (26:58) 4. What did Peter do in an attempt to observe the proceedings against Jesus? (26:58) 5. What were the chief priests and Sanhedrin hoping to find? (26:59) 6. *Who came forward to testify at this “trial”? (26:60) 7. *What did one witness claim to have heard Jesus say? (26:61) 8. When the high priest first began questioning Jesus, how did Jesus respond? (26:62–63) 9. What question did the high priest finally ask Jesus about His identity? (26:63) 10. How did Jesus answer the high priest? (26:64) 11. What prophetic statement did Jesus make in His defense? (26:64) 12. How did Jesus’ claim affect the high priest? (26:65–66) 13. What emotional and physical abuse did Christ endure at the hands of these spiritual leaders? (26:67–68) Get It 1. *How is it possible for an innocent person to be accused and convicted of a crime? 2. *When have you been harmed by false accusers spreading malicious lies? 3. How can we respond when attacked for no just reason? 4. What is it like to be ganged up on? 5. Why do you think Christ didn’t argue with his accusers and make some sort of defense? 6. In what situations are we tempted to water down or soft-pedal the truth? 7. What is it that sometimes causes groups of people to become vicious and cruel? 8. What do you think about Jesus’ claim to be the Son of God? Apply It 1. In what group situations might you be able to act as a calming and peacemaking voice this week? 2. *In what situation this week do you need to tell the truth, even if it may cost you? 3. To what friend(s) in trouble can you show support by your physical presence?