Albert Barnes Commentary Matthew 27:14

"And he gave him no answer, not even to one word: insomuch that the governor marvelled greatly." — Matthew 27:14 (ASV)

To never a word. That is, not at all. He said nothing. This is a way of speaking, denoting that it was remarkable. It is an emphatic way of saying that He answered nothing. There was no need for Him to reply. He was innocent, and they offered no proof of guilt. Besides, His appearance was full evidence in His favor. He was poor, unarmed, without powerful friends, and alone. His life had been public, and His sentiments were well known; and the charge, on its face, had the aspect of absurdity. It therefore deserved no answer.

Marvelled greatly. Pilate wondered exceedingly, or was much surprised. He was probably more surprised that Jesus bore this so meekly, and did not return railing for railing, than that He did not set up a defense. The latter was unnecessary; the former was unusual. The governor was not accustomed to seeing this and was therefore greatly amazed.

It was at this time that Pilate, having heard them speak of Galilee (Luke 23:5), asked if Jesus was a Galilean. Having ascertained that He was, and probably desiring to free himself from any further trouble in the affair, under the pretense that Jesus belonged to Herod's jurisdiction, Pilate sent Him to Herod. Herod was then in Jerusalem, attending the Feast of the Passover (Luke 23:6–12).

After Herod had examined Jesus and found no cause of death in Him, he sent Him back to Pilate. Pleased with the respect Pilate had shown him, Herod laid aside his enmity against Pilate, and they became friends.

The cause of their friendship does not appear to have been at all that they were united in opposing the claims of Jesus to be the Messiah; rather, it was the respect Pilate had shown Herod by sending Jesus to him.