In the context of biblical narratives, the concept of being "cross-examined" can be understood as the process of being questioned or scrutinized, often in a legal or judicial setting. This process is evident in several key biblical accounts where individuals are subjected to questioning to ascertain truth, guilt, or innocence.

Old Testament Instances

1. Joseph and His Brothers: In Genesis 42, Joseph, who had risen to power in Egypt, cross-examines his brothers when they come to buy grain during the famine. Unrecognized by them, Joseph accuses them of being spies and questions them about their family to test their honesty. This interrogation serves as a pivotal moment in the narrative, revealing the brothers' remorse and setting the stage for reconciliation.

2. Daniel and the Elders: In the apocryphal addition to the Book of Daniel, known as "Susanna," Daniel cross-examines the two elders who falsely accuse Susanna of adultery. By questioning them separately and exposing inconsistencies in their testimonies, Daniel demonstrates Susanna's innocence and the elders' deceit.

New Testament Instances

1. Jesus Before the Sanhedrin: One of the most significant instances of cross-examination in the New Testament occurs during the trial of Jesus. In Matthew 26:59-66, the chief priests and the Sanhedrin seek false testimony against Jesus to put Him to death. Despite their efforts, they struggle to find consistent evidence. Jesus remains largely silent, fulfilling the prophecy of Isaiah 53:7, "He was oppressed and afflicted, yet He did not open His mouth."

2. Paul Before the Authorities: The Apostle Paul frequently faced cross-examination during his missionary journeys. In Acts 24, Paul is brought before Governor Felix, where he is accused by the Jewish leaders. Paul defends himself by articulating his faith and the hope of the resurrection, effectively using the opportunity to witness to the truth of the Gospel.

3. Peter and John Before the Sanhedrin: In Acts 4, Peter and John are brought before the Sanhedrin after healing a lame man and preaching in Jesus' name. They are questioned about their authority and power. Filled with the Holy Spirit, Peter boldly declares, "Salvation exists in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved" (Acts 4:12).

Theological Implications

The act of cross-examination in the Bible often serves to reveal truth and expose falsehood. It underscores the importance of integrity, honesty, and the pursuit of justice. In the biblical worldview, God is the ultimate judge who discerns the thoughts and intentions of the heart (Hebrews 4:12). The narratives of cross-examination highlight the tension between human justice and divine justice, often pointing to the limitations of human judgment and the need for divine intervention.

Practical Application

For believers, these accounts encourage a commitment to truth and righteousness. They remind Christians of the importance of standing firm in their faith, even when faced with scrutiny or persecution. The examples of Jesus, Paul, and the early apostles serve as models of courage and faithfulness in the face of opposition, inspiring believers to trust in God's ultimate justice and sovereignty.(imp. & p. p.) of Cross-examine.

The Parables
... Thus, when cross-examined about His authority by men who themselves professed to
know not whence John's baptism was, He could refuse to be entrapped, and yet ...
/.../chadwick/the gospel of st mark/chapter 4 12 13-oct the parables.htm

Introductory Remarks on the Importance of Orthodoxy
... In the fifteenth century men cross-examined and tormented a man because he preached
some immoral attitude; in the nineteenth century we feted and flattered ...
//christianbookshelf.org/chesterton/heretics/i introductory remarks on the.htm

"Honey in the Mouth!"
... Here is a man in the witness-box, and he has sworn to speak the truth, and he says
that he has done so; and now he is cross-examined, and he says, "Now, I have ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 37 1891/honey in the mouth.htm

A Poor Man's Cry, and what came of It
... If I were put into the witness-box, and knew that I should be cross-examined by
the keenest of lawyers, I should not hesitate to bear my testimony, that by ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 37 1891/a poor mans cry and.htm

Witnessing Better than Knowing the Future
... There are some who can give their evidence-in-chief, but the pity is that, when
they come to be cross-examined, when they get among the ungodly in the world ...
/.../spurgeons sermons volume 39 1893/witnessing better than knowing the.htm

Biogenesis
... Yet, when the Spiritual man is cross-examined upon this confession it is
astonishing to find what uncertain hold it has upon his mind. ...
/.../drummond/natural law in the spiritual world/biogenesis.htm

The First Epistle of St. Peter
The General Epistles: James, Peter, and Judas. <. ...
/.../moffat/the general epistles james peter and judas/the first epistle of st.htm

Cross-examined (1 Occurrence)
Cross-examined. Crosses, Cross-examined. Crossing . Noah Webster's Dictionary
(imp. ... Multi-Version Concordance Cross-examined (1 Occurrence). ...
/c/cross-examined.htm - 6k

Crossing (26 Occurrences)

/c/crossing.htm - 14k

Crosses (6 Occurrences)

/c/crosses.htm - 8k

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