A.T. Robertson Commentary Mark 15

In the morning (πρω). The ratification meeting after day. See on Mt 26:1-5 for details.

Held a consultation (συμβουλιον ποιησαντες). So text of Westcott and Hort (Vulgate

consilium facientes), though they give ετοιμασαντες in the margin. The late and rare word συμβουλιον is like the Latin consilium. If ετοιμασαντες is the correct text, the idea would be rather to prepare a concerted plan of action (Gould). But their action was illegal on the night before and they felt the need of this ratification after dawn which is described in Lu 22:66-71, who does not give the illegal night trial.

Bound Jesus (δησαντες τον Ιησουν). He was bound on his arrest (John 18:12) when brought before Annas who sent him on bound to Caiaphas (John 18:24) and now he is bound again as he is sent to Pilate (Matthew 27:2). It is implied that he was unbound while before Annas and then before Caiaphas and the Sanhedrin.

Art thou the King of the Jews? (Συ ε ο βασιλευς των Ιουδαιων; ). This is the only one of the charges made by the Sanhedrin to Pilate (Luke 23:2) that he notices. He does not believe this one to be true, but he has to pay attention to it or be liable to charges himself of passing over a man accused of rivalry and revolution against Caesar. John 18:28–32 gives the interview with Jesus that convinces Pilate that he is a harmless religious fanatic. See on Mt 26:11.

Thou sayest (συ λεγεις). An affirmation, though in Joh 18:34-37 there is a second and fuller interview between Pilate and Jesus. "Here, as in the trial before the Sanhedrin, this is the one question that Jesus answers. It is the only question on which his own testimony is important and necessary" (Gould). The Jews were out on the pavement or sidewalk outside the palace while Pilate came out to them from above on the balcony (John 18:28f.) and had his interviews with Jesus on the inside, calling Jesus thither (John 18:33).

Accused him of many things (κατηγορουν αυτου πολλα). Imperfect tense, repeated accusations besides those already made. They let loose their venom against Jesus. One of the common verbs for speaking against in court (κατα and αγορευω). It is used with the genitive of the person and the accusative of the thing.

Marvelled (θαυμαζειν). Pilate was sure of the innocence of Jesus and saw through their envy , but he was hoping that Jesus would answer these charges to relieve him of the burden. He marvelled also at the self-control of Jesus.

Used to release (απελυεν). Imperfect tense of customary action where Mt 27:15 has the verb ειωθε (was accustomed to).

They asked of him (παρηιτουντο). Imperfect middle, expressing their habit also.