Annas was deposed as high priest fifteen years ago, but Jesus was taken to his home. His son-in-law Caiaphas is the official high priest, and John reminds us that he has decided Jesus should die. This family isn't interested in justice or truth, but in maintaining power and managing their reputation. Instead of calling witnesses, Annas asks who is involved with Jesus and looks for errors in his teaching. He wants Jesus to incriminate himself and betray his associates. Jesus responds to a night-time inquisition before loyalists, "I have spoken openly to the world." His ministry was in public places, where everyone could hear him. He asks for witnesses and evidence. An officer slaps him across the face. The slap is about putting Jesus in his place and reminding everyone else of their role: comply with Annas' agenda. Silence anyone who doesn't go along. While Jesus is exposing the insiders, Peter is outside in the cold. He's warming himself at a fire with the people who seized his rabbi. As he talks with the women and the servants, the questions are threats. Annas asks Jesus about his disciples. A servant girl asks Peter about Jesus. Jesus says everything is openly known. Peter says he doesn't know him. In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus said, "I am." In the courtyard, Peter said, "I am not." Jesus is bound, but his spirit is free. He has nothing to hide. Peter is free, but fear motivates him to lie. The rooster crows, and we know Peter's time has come. It's the darkest time of night, and the only person telling the truth is sent away.