47 So the chief priests and Pharisees convened a council [of the leaders in Israel], and said, “What are we doing? For this man performs many signs (attesting miracles). 48 If we let Him go on like this, everyone will believe in Him, and the Romans will come and take away both our [holy] place (the temple) and our nation.” 

John 11:47-48 (AMP)

Yesterday we saw two reactions to the raising of Lazrus from the dead: Those who believed and those who did not believe but more, sought to stop Jesus so turned him into the Jewish leaders. Today we see how the the Jewish leaders responded. It’s quite predictable based on what we’ve seen here-to-fore. 

By the way, how did John know about this council (of the Sanhedrin) since he was not prot of the sanhedrin? “John’s authority for the account of what passed here would be Joseph of Arimathaea or Nicodemus or some other member of the Sanhedrin who later became a Christian.” (Trench, quoted on enduringword.com)

Existential threat

The Jewish leaders were terribly frustrated with Jesus. They first couldn’t figure out who He is and if He’s a threat to their authority. By now, after all these proofs – not just the miracles but His speaking, knowledge of the Bible, massive following and claims to be the Messiah and Son of God, even very God. Now they see him as a threat to their very existence. It’s all about power. They didn’t seem to care about the people themselves, only their power and “our” nation (not God’s). 

He’s Messiah

It’s also quite possible that they (at least some) were realizing that He is indeed the Messiah. The problem was their expectations for what Messiah should be did not line up with Jesus. They had to decide if they would humble themselves to seek God’s higher way (Isaiah 55:8-9) or hold onto their pride and their own way. Some, like Nidocemus and Joseph of Arimathaea, seem to have repented and humbled themselves.

<- Reflection ->

• How do you respond to Jesus? If you’ve been following along, you’ve been shown who Jesus is and claims to be along with His proofs. The Holy Spirit of God is speaking to you through what you are reading. Enter comments, contact us, or click here for more information about trusting in Christ.