Definition: And the chief priests and scribes sought how they might kill him; for they feared the people.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Luke 22:2. It’s a really important and dramatic moment in the Gospel of John – it’s one of the earliest examples of Jesus being arrested and questioning. Here's what it means, explained simply: The Basic Situation: Jesus is walking through Jerusalem, and he’s met with a group of religious leaders (priests and scribes). They are worried because they believe he might be a threat to their authority or to the peace of the region. They're thinking about how they could potentially harm him. What it Means – A Bit More Detailed: “And the chief priests and scribes…” : This refers to some of the most powerful and influential religious leaders in Jerusalem at the time. They held significant power over the people, and their concern shows how important this event was to them. “…sought how they might kill him” : This is the core of the verse. The leaders weren't just worried about a possible attack; they were deeply concerned about the possibility of being able to kill Jesus. They were grappling with a terrifying thought – could something happen that would lead to his death? “for they feared the people” : This is a crucial part. The leaders weren't thinking about themselves; they were focused on the people . They were worried about the consequences of Jesus’s arrest and potential punishment for those who might oppose him. They believed that if he was killed, it would cause unrest and chaos in Jerusalem. Why It Matters – A Sense of Tension & Warning: This verse is a snapshot of a very tense moment in Jesus's ministry. It highlights: The Growing Conflict: This event happened just after Jesus had challenged the religious leaders’ interpretation of Jewish law, which was causing tension and conflict. Jesus’s Authority: It shows that Jesus wasn't just being followed; he was also challenging their beliefs and demanding respect. Potential for Danger: It’s a warning – it suggests that there might be significant danger to Jesus's life, and perhaps even to the entire Jewish community. In short, Luke 22:2 tells us that the leaders were worried about the potential for violence against Jesus because they feared the people. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific theme in the Bible (like faith, fear, or leadership)? Give you some context about the time and place of this event?