Book of Matthew - Chapter 26 - Verse 5

When the religious leaders were seeking to arrest Jesus, they were cautious about doing so during the feast day. This was because they were concerned that any disturbance or uproar among the people during this sacred time could have serious consequences. The feast day was a time of celebration and worship for the Jewish people, and any disruption to this holy time could have incited anger and resistance from the crowd. The religious leaders were aware of the potential backlash from the people if they were to apprehend Jesus during such a significant occasion. This verse reflects the delicate balance the religious leaders had to maintain in carrying out their plans while also considering the reactions and emotions of the people. It shows the strategic thinking and calculated approach they had to take in handling the situation surrounding Jesus' arrest.

When examining the theological interpretation of the verse 'But they said, Not on the feast day, lest there be an uproar among the people.', it is important to consider the context in which this statement was made. This verse appears in the Gospel of Matthew, where the chief priests and elders are discussing how to arrest Jesus without causing a public disturbance. The concern about causing an uproar among the people reflects a fear of the potential consequences of their actions, both politically and socially. From a theological perspective, this verse highlights the tension between the religious authorities and Jesus, who was seen as a threat to their power and influence. The word "feast day" in this context likely refers to the Passover festival, a significant event in the Jewish calendar. Overall, this verse underscores the political and social implications of Jesus' ministry and the resistance he faced from those in positions of authority.