King James Version
What Does Luke 11:53 Mean?
“And as he said these things unto them, the scribes and the Pharisees began to urge him vehemently, and to provoke him to speak of many things:”
Context
51
From the blood of Abel unto the blood of Zacharias, which perished between the altar and the temple: verily I say unto you, It shall be required of this generation.
52
Woe unto you, lawyers! for ye have taken away the key of knowledge: ye entered not in yourselves, and them that were entering in ye hindered. hindered: or, forbad
53
And as he said these things unto them, the scribes and the Pharisees began to urge him vehemently, and to provoke him to speak of many things:
54
Laying wait for him, and seeking to catch something out of his mouth, that they might accuse him.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(53) **And as he said these things unto them.**—The better MSS. give, “When He had gone forth from thence . . . ,” as though Jesus had left the house after uttering the “woe” of Luke 11:52, and was followed by the crowd of angry and embittered disputants.
**To provoke him to speak.**—The Greek verb has literally the sense of “causing to speak impromptu, without thought,” and is happily enough rendered by the English text.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Luke. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Luke 11:53 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Luke 11:53
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge