King James Version

What Does John 18:12 Mean?

“Then the band and the captain and officers of the Jews took Jesus, and bound him,”

Context

Then Simon Peter having a sword drew it, and smote the high priest's servant, and cut off his right ear. The servant's name was Malchus.

Then said Jesus unto Peter, Put up thy sword into the sheath: the cup which my Father hath given me, shall I not drink it?

Then the band and the captain and officers of the Jews took Jesus, and bound him,

And led him away to Annas first; for he was father in law to Caiaphas, which was the high priest that same year. year: year. And Annas sent Christ bound unto Caiaphas the high priest

Now Caiaphas was he, which gave counsel to the Jews, that it was expedient that one man should die for the people.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(12) **Then the band and the captain and officers of the Jews.**—A stop should be placed after “captain.” The “band and the captain” were the Roman cohort (comp. Note on John 18:3) and their tribune (*Chiliarch;* comp. Mark 6:21). The “officers of the Jews” were, as before, the Temple servants (see above, John 18:3), and the apparitors of the Sanhedrin. **Took Jesus, and bound him.**—Comp. Notes on Matthew 26:50; Matthew 27:2.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of John. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

John 18:12 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.