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Book of Luke - Chapter 20 - Verse 1

20:1
And it came to pass, that on one of those days, as he taught the people in the temple, and preached the gospel, the chief priests and the scribes came upon him with the elders,

Meaning

In this verse, we witness Jesus teaching the people in the temple and preaching the gospel. As he continues his ministry, he is confronted by the chief priests, scribes, and elders. This encounter highlights the opposition Jesus faced from religious leaders during his earthly ministry. The chief priests, scribes, and elders were influential figures in the Jewish community and held authority within the temple. Their presence symbolizes the religious establishment's resistance to Jesus and his message. Despite their opposition, Jesus remained steadfast in his mission to spread the good news of the gospel. This verse serves as a reminder of the challenges Jesus faced as he carried out his ministry and the significance of his teachings in the face of adversity.

Theological Overview

One theological interpretation of this verse from Luke 20:1-2 is that it highlights the conflict between Jesus and the religious leaders of the time. The presence of the chief priests, scribes, and elders indicates a challenge to Jesus' teachings and authority. The passage reflects how Jesus' message of the gospel was met with opposition from those who held positions of power within the religious establishment. This confrontation sets the stage for the events that will unfold, leading to Jesus' crucifixion. It also serves as a reminder of the spiritual warfare that often accompanies the preaching of the good news.

Word studies may reveal deeper meanings in this verse. For example, 'chief priests' in the original Greek can connote the religious elite who hold positions of authority. 'Scribes' refer to scholars and teachers of the Law. Understanding the roles and titles of those who confronted Jesus can provide insight into the dynamics at play during this encounter. Additionally, examining the nuances of the Greek words used can shed light on the gravity of the situation and the significance of Jesus' teachings within the context of the temple. By delving into the word meanings, a richer understanding of the verse can be gained.

American Standard Version

And it came to pass, on one of the days, as he was teaching the people in the temple, and preaching the gospel, there came upon him the chief priests and the scribes with the elders;
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