And Peter had followed him at a distance, right into the courtyard of the high priest. And he was sitting with the guards and warming himself at the fire.
We have here Christ's arraignment, trial, conviction, and condemnation, in the ecclesiastical court, before the great sanhedrim, of which the high priest was president, or judge of the court; the same Caiaphas that had lately adjudged it expedient he should be put to death, guilty or not guilty (Joh 11:50), and who therefore might justly be excepted against as partial. I.
Commenting on Mark 14:53-65
And there arose certain,.... Two false witnesses, as in Mat 26:60, who stood up in court; for witnesses were obliged to stand, whilst they gave in their testimony: "says R. Bo, in the name of R. Hona, witnesses ought "to stand", whilst they bear witness; as it is said, Deu 19:17. "Both the men shall stand" (m), &c.'' And bare false witness against him, saying; as follows. (m) T. Herios.
Peter followed - On Peter's denial, see Mat 26:57, etc. At the fire - Προς το φως, literally, at the light, i.e. a fire that cast considerable light, in consequence of which, the maid servant was the better able to distinguish him: see Mar 14:67.