Matthew 26:60

60 but they found none, ¹though many false witnesses came forward. At last ²two 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 And Peter was following him at a distance, as far as the courtyard of the high priest, and going inside he sat with the guards to see the end.

59 Now the chief priests and the whole Councilwere seeking false testimony against Jesus that they might put him to death,

60 but they found none, though many false witnesses came forward. At last two came forward

61 and said, "This man said, 'I am able to destroy the temple of God, and to rebuild it in three days.'"

62 And the high priest stood up and said, "Have you no answer to make? What is it that these men testify against you?"

Cross References

• 1. Psalms 27:12; Psalms 35:11
• 2. Deuteronomy 19:15