John 18:24

Before that John proceed to the last branch of this part of the Chapter, he doth here subjoyn how Annas (to whom Christ was sent, v. 13.) had sent him bound to Caiaphas. Not (as hath been cleared on v. 12, 13, 14.) as if the things formerly recorded had been acted upon him before he was brought thither; But only, by way of conclusion to the former purpose. and by way of transition to what followeth, he declareth that Christ before this had been brought to the High Priests hall, where he was examined and injured by the High Priests servant, and where Peter denied him, though he had not mentioned his bringing thither before. From the purpose in this verse. Learn, 1. It pleased the Father to expose his Son Christ to the malice of his enemies, who shewed him no mercy, but the uttermost of their rage; that so he might purchase a better lot for his people: for, therefore it is marked, that as he came bound to Annas, v. 12, 13. so he doth not release him, but sent him bound to Caiaphas his mortal enemy. 2. God will not only mark what cruelty people exercise against Christ and his followers themselves, but how they contribute to, and are instrumental in their ill usage from others; Therefore it is marked, to the perpetual infamy of Annas, that when he had insulted a while over Christ, he sent him bound to Caiaphas, where he might be yet more cruelly handled. 3. It pleased our Lord in his sufferings, to condescend to come bound as a delinquent before an High Priest, that so he might teach his people what delinquents they were before the Tribunal of God, and might purchase for them a more comfortable and free accesse to himself their High Priest, and to the Father through him; for, so much may be gathered from his being sent bound to Caiaphas the High Priest. See Heb. 4.14, 15, 16.