{8} The high priest then asked Jesus of his disciples, and of his doctrine.

(8) Christ defends his cause, but only slightly, not that he would withdraw himself from death, but to show that he was condemned as someone who was innocent.

People's New Testament

18:15-27 For the trial of Jesus before Caiaphas and the denial of Peter, see notes on Mt 26:57-75. Compare Mr 14:53-72 Lu 22:54-71.

Scofield Reference Notes

Margin The high priest

For the order of events on the day of the crucifixion, See Scofield Note: "Mt 26:57".

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

19-21. The high priest . asked Jesus of his disciples, and of his doctrine-probably to entrap Him into some statements which might be used against Him at the trial. From our Lord's answer it would seem that "His disciples" were understood to be some secret party. (Also see on [1895]Mr 14:54.)

Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary

18:13-27 Simon Peter denied his Master. The particulars have been noticed in the remarks on the other Gospels. The beginning of sin is as the letting forth of water. The sin of lying is a fruitful sin; one lie needs another to support it, and that another. If a call to expose ourselves to danger be clear, we may hope God will enable us to honour him; if it be not, we may fear that God will leave us to shame ourselves. They said nothing concerning the miracles of Jesus, by which he had done so much good, and which proved his doctrine. Thus the enemies of Christ, whilst they quarrel with his truth, wilfully shut their eyes against it. He appeals to those who heard him. The doctrine of Christ may safely appeal to all that know it, and those who judge in truth bear witness to it. Our resentment of injuries must never be passionate. He reasoned with the man that did him the injury, and so may we.