How does Psalm 35:11 connect with Jesus' trial in the Gospels? Psalm 35:11 – David’s Cry of Unjust Accusation “False witnesses rise up; they ask me things I do not know.” (Psalm 35:11) False Witnesses at Jesus’ Trial “Now the chief priests and the whole Sanhedrin were seeking false testimony against Jesus in order to put Him to death. But they found none, though many false witnesses came forward. Finally two came forward.” “Now the chief priests and the whole Council were seeking testimony against Jesus to put Him to death, but they did not find any. For many bore false witness against Him, but their testimony was inconsistent. Then some men stood up and testified falsely against Him: ‘We heard Him say, “I will destroy this temple made with hands, and in three days I will build another not made by hands.”’ But even their testimony was inconsistent.” Prophetic Connection – How Psalm 35:11 Foreshadows the Messiah • David’s lament becomes a prophetic pattern that finds its fullest expression in Jesus. • Both face determined enemies who fabricate evidence to secure a death sentence. • The Messiah’s suffering fulfills the righteous-yet-persecuted theme seen throughout the Psalms (cf. Psalm 22:1-8; Isaiah 53:7-9; Acts 13:33-35). Key Similarities between David’s Experience and Jesus’ Trial • False witnesses: Psalm 35:11; Matthew 26:59-60; Mark 14:55-59 • Inconsistent testimony exposed: Mark 14:56, 59 • Hidden agenda of the accusers: Psalm 35:7; John 11:53 • The innocent sufferer remains under God’s vindication: Psalm 35:23-24; Acts 2:24, 32 Why This Matters • Confirms the reliability of Old Testament prophecy, showing detailed fulfillment in Christ. • Highlights Jesus’ innocence and the injustice He endured for our redemption (1 Peter 3:18). • Encourages believers to trust God’s vindication when facing slander, following the example of both David and Christ. |
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