Matthew 26:5

"But not during the feast," they said, "or there may be a riot among the people."

Study Bible

But they said
This phrase introduces the response of the chief priests and elders as they deliberate on how to arrest Jesus. The Greek word for "said" is "εἶπαν" (eipan), which is an aorist active indicative verb, indicating a past action. This highlights the decisiveness and finality of their decision. The use of "they" refers to the collective group of religious leaders, emphasizing their unity in opposition to Jesus. Historically, this reflects the growing tension between Jesus and the Jewish authorities, who felt threatened by His teachings and influence.

Not during the feast
The phrase "Not during the feast" reveals the leaders' concern about timing. The "feast" refers to the Passover, a significant Jewish festival commemorating the Israelites' deliverance from Egypt. The Greek word for "feast" is "ἑορτή" (heortē), which denotes a festival or celebration. The leaders were aware of the large crowds gathered in Jerusalem for the Passover and feared that any action against Jesus during this time could incite a riot. This reflects their political astuteness and desire to maintain public order, even as they plotted an unjust act.

or there may be a riot
The concern for a "riot" underscores the volatile atmosphere in Jerusalem during the Passover. The Greek word for "riot" is "θόρυβος" (thorybos), meaning an uproar or disturbance. This highlights the leaders' fear of losing control over the people, who were increasingly drawn to Jesus. Historically, Jerusalem was a hotbed of political and religious tension, especially during major festivals when the city was filled with pilgrims. The leaders' fear of a riot indicates their awareness of Jesus' popularity and the potential for unrest if He were arrested publicly.

among the people
The phrase "among the people" points to the general populace, who were largely supportive of Jesus. The Greek word for "people" is "λαός" (laos), which often refers to the common people or the masses. This highlights the divide between the religious elite and the ordinary citizens, many of whom saw Jesus as a prophet and were captivated by His teachings and miracles. The leaders' concern about the people's reaction underscores their recognition of Jesus' influence and the potential backlash against their authority if they acted rashly.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Chief Priests and Elders
Religious leaders of the Jewish community who were plotting to arrest Jesus by stealth and kill Him. They were concerned about maintaining order and avoiding public unrest.

2. The Feast
Refers to the Feast of Unleavened Bread, which includes the Passover. It was a significant Jewish festival commemorating the Israelites' exodus from Egypt.

3. The People
The general populace of Jerusalem, many of whom were gathered for the feast. They held Jesus in high regard, which made the leaders cautious about how they proceeded.

4. Jerusalem
The city where these events took place, a central location for Jewish worship and pilgrimage, especially during major feasts.

5. Riot
The potential public disorder that the religious leaders feared if they arrested Jesus during the feast, due to His popularity among the people.

Teaching Points

Fear of Man vs. Fear of God
The religious leaders were more concerned about public opinion and maintaining their power than seeking God's will. We must prioritize God's approval over human approval.

God's Sovereignty in Human Plans
Despite the leaders' intentions, God's plan for salvation through Jesus' death and resurrection was fulfilled. Trust in God's sovereignty even when human plans seem to prevail.

The Danger of Hypocrisy
The leaders' outward religious observance was contradicted by their secretive and malicious intentions. We should strive for integrity, ensuring our actions align with our professed beliefs.

The Role of Festivals and Traditions
The leaders' concern about timing during the feast shows the importance of understanding the role of religious traditions in our lives. Traditions should point us to God, not distract us from Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the fear of public opinion influence our decisions today, and how can we ensure we prioritize God's will over human approval?

2. In what ways do we see God's sovereignty at work in situations where human plans seem to dominate?

3. How can we guard against hypocrisy in our own lives, ensuring our actions reflect our faith?

4. What role do religious traditions and festivals play in your spiritual life, and how can they be used to draw you closer to God?

5. How can we apply the lessons from the religious leaders' mistakes to our own leadership roles, whether in the church, family, or workplace?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Mark 14:1-2
This passage parallels Matthew 26:5, providing additional context about the plot against Jesus and the leaders' fear of a public uproar.

John 11:47-53
Describes the council's decision to put Jesus to death, highlighting their political and social concerns.

Acts 5:26
Shows the apostles being arrested carefully to avoid public unrest, similar to the leaders' concerns in Matthew 26:5.