Charles Spurgeon Commentary John 18:23

"Jesus answered him, If I have spoken evil, bear witness of the evil: but if well, why smitest thou me?" — John 18:23 (ASV)

If I have spoken evil, bear witness of the evil: but if well, why do you smite me?

Let us pray that, whenever we are despitefully treated, we may keep our temper, and be as composed as our Lord was; and if we must make an answer to our accusers, let it be as discreet and as justifiable as this answer of our Lord was.

Jesus answered him, If I have spoken evil, bear witness of the evil: but if well, why smitest thou me?

Nothing could have been more calm or more dignified, and, at the same time, more full of the spirit of forgiveness.