In Mark 14:53-65 we witness Jesus on trial before the leadership of Israel. Three strands of irony stand out in this passage. First, it is ironic that Jesus, who is judge of all, is being judged by Israel's leaders. Second, it is ironic that the Sanhedrin (the ruling body in Israel) accuses Jesus of blasphemy while they themselves blaspheme the Son of God! Third, it is also ironic that the Sanhedrin condemns their Messiah who will one day return in power and glory to condemn them and all others who have denied Him. We also learn from this passage that Jesus' claim to be the Messiah was open and unambiguous. This is important as we also witness how the Sanhedrin openly rejected Christ's claim and sentenced Him to death for making the claim. Jesus' claim to be the Messiah and Lord of all still confronts every person in the world today. Who do you say that He is?

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