Expositor's Bible Commentary 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)

Jesus’ answer impressed one of the captors as disrespectful to the high priest, and he struck Jesus in the face. The act was illegal. No sentence had been passed, and a prisoner was not subject to abuse, especially when uncondemned. In spite of Jesus’ protest, nothing was done; and he was sent bound to Caiaphas (possibly to another room in the same building). John writes nothing about the hearing before Caiaphas (Mark 14:53–65).