Albert Barnes Commentary Matthew 26:60

"and they found it not, though many false witnesses came. But afterward came two," — Matthew 26:60 (ASV)

False witnesses. Witnesses who would accuse him of a crime—a violation of the laws of the land or of God. We are not to suppose that they wished them to be false witnesses. They were probably indifferent as to whether they were true or false, if they could succeed in condemning him.

The evangelist calls it false testimony. Before these witnesses were sought, we learn from John 18:19-23 that the high priest questioned Jesus about his disciples and his doctrine. Jesus replied that he had taught openly in the temple and had said nothing in secret; that is, he had no secret doctrines that he had not been willing to teach openly, and he referred them to those who had heard him.

In a firm, dignified manner, he put himself on trial and insisted on his rights. If I have spoken evil, bear witness of the evil; but if well, why smitest thou me? This conversation probably took place before the council was assembled, and Peter’s denials occurred during this time. Luke informs us (Luke 22:66) that the council came together as soon as it was day—that is, probably near morning, or not far from daybreak—after Peter had denied him and gone out.

Found they none. That is, they found no one on whose testimony they could convict him with any show of reason. The reason was, as Mark says (Mark 14:56), that their witness agreed not together. They differed about facts, times, and circumstances, as all false witnesses do. Two witnesses were required by their law, and they did not dare to condemn him without conforming, in appearance at least, to the requirements of the law.