And the chief priests began to accuse Him of many things.
The chief priests: The chief priests were influential leaders within the Jewish religious hierarchy, primarily from the Sadducees, who held significant power in the Sanhedrin, the Jewish ruling council. Their role was not only religious but also political, as they maintained a delicate balance of power with the Roman authorities. Their involvement in Jesus' trial highlights the tension between Jesus' teachings and the established religious order.

Began to accuse Him: The accusations against Jesus were part of a premeditated plan to eliminate Him as a threat to their authority. The chief priests had previously plotted to kill Jesus (Mark 14:1) and now sought to present charges that would warrant Roman intervention. This reflects the fulfillment of prophecies such as Isaiah 53:7, where the suffering servant is oppressed and afflicted yet does not open His mouth in defense.

Of many things: The accusations were numerous and likely included claims of blasphemy, misleading the nation, forbidding tribute to Caesar, and claiming to be a king (Luke 23:2). These charges were designed to portray Jesus as a political insurgent, a threat to Roman rule, and a blasphemer against Jewish law. The multiplicity of accusations underscores the desperation and determination of the chief priests to ensure Jesus' condemnation.1. Jesus Christ
The central figure of the New Testament, believed by Christians to be the Son of God and the Messiah. In this passage, He is on trial before Pontius Pilate.

2. Chief Priests
Jewish religious leaders who held significant power and influence. They were instrumental in orchestrating the trial and crucifixion of Jesus.

3. Pontius Pilate
The Roman governor of Judea who presided over the trial of Jesus. He is a key figure in the events leading to the crucifixion.

4. Accusations
The charges brought against Jesus by the chief priests, which were numerous and intended to persuade Pilate to sentence Jesus to death.

5. Sanhedrin
The Jewish council that played a role in the trial of Jesus, although not directly mentioned in this verse, they were involved in the accusations.The Nature of False Accusations
False accusations are a tool of the enemy to undermine truth and justice. Believers should be prepared to face them with integrity and trust in God.

Christ's Example of Silence
Jesus' silence in the face of false accusations demonstrates His trust in God's plan and His fulfillment of prophecy. Believers can learn to respond with grace and patience when falsely accused.

The Role of Religious Leaders
The actions of the chief priests serve as a warning against the misuse of religious authority. Leaders are called to uphold truth and justice, not personal agendas.

Trusting God's Sovereignty
Despite the injustice of the situation, Jesus trusted in God's sovereign plan. Believers are encouraged to trust God even when circumstances seem unjust.

The Fulfillment of Prophecy
The events of Jesus' trial fulfill Old Testament prophecies, affirming the reliability of Scripture and God's redemptive plan through Christ.(3) But he answered nothing.--Many MSS. omit these words, but the fact is implied in Pilate's question, and in "Jesus yet answered nothing," in Mark 15:5.

Verse 3. - And the chief priests accused him of many things. The words in the Authorized Version, "but he answered nothing," are not to be found here in any of the best manuscripts or versions. But they are to be found in St. Matthew (Matthew 27:12); and Pilate's question in the next verse confirms St. Matthew's statement, and makes the sentence unnecessary here. Our Lord answered nothing, because all that they had to say against him was manifestly false or frivolous, and unworthy of any reply. St. Augustine says on this, "The Savior, who is the Wisdom of God, knew how to overcome by keeping silence."

Parallel Commentaries ...


And
Καὶ (Kai)
Conjunction
Strong's 2532: And, even, also, namely.

the
οἱ (hoi)
Article - Nominative Masculine Plural
Strong's 3588: The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.

chief priests
ἀρχιερεῖς (archiereis)
Noun - Nominative Masculine Plural
Strong's 749: High priest, chief priest. From arche and hiereus; the high-priest; by extension a chief priest.

began to accuse
κατηγόρουν (katēgoroun)
Verb - Imperfect Indicative Active - 3rd Person Plural
Strong's 2723: To accuse, charge, prosecute. From kategoros; to be a plaintiff, i.e. To charge with some offence.

Him
αὐτοῦ (autou)
Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive Masculine 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 846: He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons.

of many things.
πολλά (polla)
Adjective - Accusative Neuter Plural
Strong's 4183: Much, many; often.


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NT Gospels: Mark 15:3 The chief priests accused him of many (Mar Mk Mr)