John 11:47

The chief priests. These were for the most part Sadducees (see p. 52). The Sadducees denied the possibility of the resurrection (Matt. 22:23; Acts 23:8). They were greatly disturbed at having one of their principal theories so summarily disproved. They now joined the Pharisees in open hostility to Jesus. In fact the chief priests played a leading role in the arrest, trial, and condemnation of Jesus (see Matt. 20:18; 21:15, 23, 45; 26:3; etc.).

Pharisees. See p. 51.

Council. Gr. sunedrion, derived from sun, “together,” and hedra, “seat,” transliterated into the English as “Sanhedrin.” On this council see p. 67.

What do we? They felt that matters had reached a pass that would permit no further delay. Opponents had become believers, enemies had become friends, and there were some in their own ranks under deep conviction. Their influence with the people was rapidly diminishing.