Discussion Questions:

1. Observing the Text - What is happening?

• What stands out to you in the setting of Jesus’ trial before Caiaphas and the Sanhedrin?
• What feels especially unjust or ironic?

2. Understanding the Claims of Jesus - Who does Jesus say he is?

• Why is Jesus’ claim not merely religious, but also cosmic and eschatological (future-oriented)?
• How does this passage challenge modern views that reduce Jesus to merely a moral teacher or prophet?
• How do we see God’s sovereignty at work even in this corrupt and unjust trial?

3. The Second Advent and the “Great Reversal”

• The sermon emphasizes a shifting of power—from earthly courts to Christ’s heavenly throne. How does this passage reframe who is truly “on trial”?
• Why is it important that Jesus speaks of his future glory in the moment of his deepest humiliation?
• What comfort does Jesus’ promised return bring to believers who experience injustice, abuse of power, or suffering today?

4. Application

• Jesus forces the question: Who do you say that I am? Why is neutrality toward Jesus impossible according to this passage?
• What does it look like, practically, to live “between the times”—trusting Christ’s present reign while longing for his visible return?