59. The chief priests and the whole Sanhedrin were looking for something to use against Jesus. They wanted to put him to death.
60. But they did not find any proof, even though many false witnesses came forward. Finally, two other witnesses came forward.
61. They said, "This fellow claimed, 'I am able to destroy the temple of God. I can build it again in three days.' "
62. Then the high priest stood up. He asked Jesus, "Aren't you going to answer? What are these charges that these men are bringing against you?"
63. But Jesus remained silent. The high priest said to him, "I command you under oath by the living God. Tell us if you are the Christ, the Son of God."
64. "Yes. It is just as you say," Jesus replied. "But here is what I say to all of you. In days to come, you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One. You will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven."
65. Then the high priest tore his clothes. He said, "He has spoken a very evil thing against God! Why do we need any more witnesses? You have heard him say this evil thing.
66. What do you think?" "He must die!" they answered.
67. Then they spit in his face. They hit him with their fists. Others slapped him.
68. They said, "Prophesy to us, Christ! Who hit you?"
69. Peter was sitting out in the courtyard. A female servant came to him. "You also were with Jesus of Galilee," she said.
70. But in front of all of them, Peter said he was not. "I don't know what you're talking about," he said.
71. Then he went out to the gate leading into the courtyard. There another woman saw him. She said to the people, "This fellow was with Jesus of Nazareth."