WAEC Christian Religious Studies (CRS) 2019 Theory — Question 7

Model answer

(a) THE TRIAL OF JESUS BEFORE THE SANHEDRIN, ACCORDING TO MARK (Mark 14:53-65) After Jesus' arrest in Gethsemane, He was followed by Peter into the courtyard of the high priest, where Peter warmed himself by the fire. The Sanhedrin, a body of religious leaders presided over by the high priest, sought false testimony against Jesus to put Him to death, but could find none valid — until, in line with Jewish law, two witnesses came forward and accused Jesus of saying He would destroy the temple and rebuild it in three days. This was treated as an attack on the Jewish religion. The high priest then asked Jesus under oath whether He was the Messiah, the Son of the Blessed One; Jesus replied that He was, and that they would see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of Power, coming with the clouds of heaven. The high priest, hearing this as blasphemy, tore his garments and sought the council's decision; Jesus was condemned to death for blasphemy. Some members of the Sanhedrin then spat on Him, covered His face, and struck Him, mocking Him to prophesy who had struck Him; He was also beaten by the guards. Peter, meanwhile, denied Jesus three times. (b) WHY PEOPLE BEAR FALSE WITNESS AGAINST OTHERS i. Envy or jealousy. ii. Hatred or a desire to defame the other. iii. Greed. iv. Vengeance. v. Being coerced to do so. vi. Being bribed to do so.