King James Version
What Does Luke 20:1 Mean?
“And it came to pass, that on one of those days, as he taught the people in the temple, and preached the gospel, the chief priests and the scribes came upon him with the elders,”
Context
1
And it came to pass, that on one of those days, as he taught the people in the temple, and preached the gospel, the chief priests and the scribes came upon him with the elders,
2
And spake unto him, saying, Tell us, by what authority doest thou these things? or who is he that gave thee this authority?
3
And he answered and said unto them, I will also ask you one thing; and answer me:
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers**XX.**
(1-8) **And it came to pass.**—See Notes on Matthew 21:23-27; Mark 11:27-33.
**And preached the gospel.**—The Greek verb (*to evangelise*) is one specially characteristic of St. Luke. Neither St. Mark nor St. John use it at all; St. Matthew once only (Matthew 11:5), in a passive sense; St. Luke ten times in the Gospel, fifteen times in the Acts. So in the Epistles, neither St. John nor St. James use it; St. Peter once; St. Paul twenty times. It, too, was clearly one of the words which the two friends and fellow-workers had in common.
**Came upon him.**—The Greek word, like the English, expresses something of a sudden, and, it might be, concerted movement.
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 20:1 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 20:1
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge