Matthew 27:11

The location of this trial is uncertain. It probably took place in Herod’s former palace (cf. Matthew 27:2). Another less probable site is the Antonia Fortress. This fortress was the site of Peter’s later imprisonment and miraculous release (Acts 12:3-11) and Paul’s defense before the people of Jerusalem and his imprisonment (Act_21:27 to Act_23:30).

Pilate’s question grew out of Jesus’ claim to be Israel’s Messiah (Matthew 26:64) that the Sanhedrin undoubtedly reported to Pilate (cf. Matthew 2:2). This was a political charge whereas the charge that Caiaphas had brought against Jesus had been religious (Matthew 26:61; Matthew 26:63). Jesus responded to Pilate’s question with the same affirmative but qualified statement that He had formerly given Judas (Matthew 26:25) and the Sanhedrin (Matthew 26:64). He was the King of the Jews (cf. Matthew 2:2) but not in the way that Pilate would have thought of such a person. Only non-Jews used this title of Jesus. Herod the Great had been the last official king of the Jews, before the Romans had assumed sovereign control of them. Jesus was not a military rebel come to throw off Rome’s yoke violently. Matthew recorded Jesus’ claim to be the Messiah again.