What does Luke 22:63 mean?

Luke 22:63–65 describes some of the abuse Jesus suffers during His illegal trial. This is being held at the home of Caiaphas, the high priest. Outside, Peter is denying Jesus in fear for his own life. Matthew 26:57–68 and Mark 14:53–65 describe the questioning of the religious leaders. They are trying to prove that Jesus has broken the Mosaic law in some egregious way. They find "witnesses," but their lies don't match up.

Eventually, two people affirm that Jesus said He would destroy the temple and rebuild it in three days. Even then, their testimony doesn't agree (Mark 14:57–59). This conversation happened early in Jesus' ministry after the first time He cleansed the temple (John 2:13–17). When the religious leaders confronted Him, He said, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up" (John 2:19). The disciples will soon realize He meant His body, not the literal temple (John 2:22). It's a setback for the Sanhedrin that the witnesses don't agree; under Roman law, it's a capital offense to damage a religious structure.

Luke skips the accusations in this trial and gives a fuller picture of the trial in the morning before the whole Sanhedrin (Luke 22:66–71). They ask many of the same questions, trying to get Jesus to make an official statement to prove His guilt. He finally admits to being the Son of God so they have reason to send Him to Pilate (Luke 22:66–71).

The beating Jesus receives is illegal. Roman authorities have a practice of beating a suspect, thinking only pain and violence will convince them to tell the truth (Acts 22:24). The Mosaic law forbids severe punishments unless the person is convicted by the witness of two men (Deuteronomy 17:6; 19:15). The Sanhedrin likely don't think this qualifies (Deuteronomy 25:1–3).