Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary John 18:20

"Jesus answered him, I have spoken openly to the world; I ever taught in synagogues, and in the temple, where all the Jews come together; and in secret spake I nothing." — John 18:20 (ASV)

The questioning focused on Jesus’ disciples and his teaching. The number and activity of the former would be important if the authorities suspected subversion, and the teaching would be scrutinized for possible revolutionary elements. This interrogation by Annas was unnecessary because Jesus had nothing to hide. He had so frequently and openly declared the principles of his kingdom that there would be many witnesses who could narrate in detail what he had taught.