JOHN 18:19–24
JESUS QUESTIONED BY ANNAS: TRUTH UNDER INTERROGATION
Text – John 18:19–24
19 The high priest questioned Jesus about his disciples and about his doctrine.
20 Jesus answered him, “I have spoken openly to the world. I have always taught in a synagogue or in the temple area where all the Jews gather, and in secret I have said nothing.
21 Why ask me? Ask those who heard me what I said to them. They know what I said.”
22 When he had said this, one of the temple guards standing there struck Jesus and said, “Is this the way you answer the high priest?”
23 Jesus answered him, “If I have spoken wrongly, testify to the wrong; but if I have spoken rightly, why do you strike me?”
24 Then Annas sent him bound to Caiaphas the high priest.
Historical and Jewish Context
Jewish legal practice required witnesses to establish guilt; interrogation aimed at self-incrimination was improper. Annas’ questioning about disciples and teaching sought grounds for accusation rather than truth. Jesus’ appeal to public teaching in synagogues and the Temple underscores transparency and fidelity to Israel’s worship life. The striking of Jesus reflects the abuse of authority common in irregular proceedings and highlights the breakdown of due process.
Catholic Theological Perspective
This scene presents Christ as Truth standing before distorted authority. Catholic theology emphasizes that Jesus does not evade justice; He insists on lawful witness and accountability. His calm response exposes injustice without retaliation, modeling righteous endurance. Being struck while bound reveals the paradox of divine authority appearing powerless. Christ’s integrity under interrogation anticipates His role as the faithful witness whose suffering reveals God’s justice and mercy.
Parallels in Scripture
Deuteronomy 19:15 – Testimony established by witnesses.
Isaiah 50:6 – The Servant struck and insulted.
Micah 6:8 – Justice and integrity before God.
Matthew 26:59–63 – Irregular trial procedures.
1 Peter 2:23 – Not returning insult for insult.
Key Terms
Openly – Transparency of Jesus’ mission.
Doctrine – Teaching rooted in God’s truth.
Witnesses – Proper means of judgment.
Struck – Abuse of authority.
Bound – Apparent defeat masking divine freedom.
Catholic Liturgical Significance
Proclaimed during Holy Week within the Passion narrative, this passage invites the Church to contemplate Christ’s steadfast truth amid injustice and to examine the ethical use of authority.
Conclusion
John 18:19–24 reveals Truth questioned by power and met with violence. Jesus’ measured words expose injustice and affirm that God’s kingdom advances not by force, but by faithful witness and obedience.
Reflection
How do I respond when truth is challenged or misrepresented?
Do I speak with integrity and courage without retaliation?
How do I exercise authority with justice and humility?
Prayer
Lord Jesus Christ, faithful witness to the truth, grant me courage to stand for what is right with humility and peace. Keep my heart free from bitterness, and help me to trust the Father when injustice surrounds me. Amen.