Matthew 26:60

60 But they could not find any, even though many false witnesses came forward.[a] Finally, two[b] who came forward

Matthew 26:60 Meaning and Commentary

Matthew 26:60

But found none
That were fit for their purpose;

yea, though many false witnesses came, yet found they none;
whose testimonies were sufficient to put him to death, which was what they were resolved upon, or whose witness were not alike and agreed; for according to their law, a man must not die by the mouth of one witness only, but by the mouth of two or three witnesses agreed in a point; and though they might be willing enough to dispense with the law in this case, yet might have some regard to their own character and reputation; and especially as they meant to deliver him to the Roman governor, in order to be condemned by him; they knew they must have a charge, and this supported with a proper evidence, or they could not hope to succeed; for which reason, they could not put up, as they otherwise willingly would, with any sort of witnesses:

at the last came two false witnesses;
who were agreed in a point, and whose testimonies were alike; at least, had a greater appearance of truth and agreement than the rest; though Mark says, "neither so did their witnesses agree together", ( Mark 14:59 ) , as to prove the point, for which it was given.

Matthew 26:60 In-Context

58 Meanwhile, Peter was following Him at a distance right to the high priest's courtyard. He went in and was sitting with the temple police to see the outcome.
59 The chief priests and the whole Sanhedrin were looking for false testimony against Jesus so they could put Him to death.
60 But they could not find any, even though many false witnesses came forward. Finally, two who came forward
61 stated, "This man said, 'I can demolish God's sanctuary and rebuild it in three days.' "
62 The high priest then stood up and said to Him, "Don't You have an answer to what these men are testifying against You?"

Footnotes 2

  • [a]. Other mss add they found none
  • [b]. Other mss add false witnesses
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