Sermon
Three Trials
Stonebrook Community Church
Speaker: Matt Heerema
April 7, 2025 · 39 min
Summary
Jesus' illegal trial before the Sanhedrin reveals three overlapping trials: Jesus falsely accused yet truthfully claiming divine authority, Peter truthfully accused yet lying to escape, and the heavenly trial where Jesus intercedes to declare believers forgiven. The sermon shows that despite deep failure, Christ's finished work guarantees complete restoration and freedom from shame.
Highlights
Peter knew something about Jesus that changed everything. Even after his denial, this is why he didn't hide it. This is why he brought it out into the open. He wanted the church to see just how badly he had failed, but how fully Jesus had restored him.
The verdict of the trial has been reached by the great judge. You can be forgiven on the basis of the case that Jesus makes, and His case is, 'I paid for it.' The penalty has been paid. It would be unjust to require another payment.
Jesus stood silently before his accusers and took the blame for the things that he did not do or did not say, but we did. He stood in our place and though he did not deserve it, he was condemned so that we would be spared that condemnation that we do deserve.