King James Version
What Does Matthew 27:1 Mean?
“When the morning was come, all the chief priests and elders of the people took counsel against Jesus to put him to death:”
Context
1
When the morning was come, all the chief priests and elders of the people took counsel against Jesus to put him to death:
2
And when they had bound him, they led him away, and delivered him to Pontius Pilate the governor.
3
Then Judas, which had betrayed him, when he saw that he was condemned, repented himself, and brought again the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders,
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English ReadersXXVII.
(1) **Took counsel.**—Better, *held a council.* (Comp. the use of the word in Acts 25:12.) Another formal meeting was held (according to the Jewish rule that the sentence of the judges was not to be given at the same sitting as the trial) to confirm the previous decision, and probably to determine on the next step to be taken. It ended, as the next verse shows, in sending our Lord to Pilate, and leaving to him the responsibility of punishing. They entered, as the sequel shows, on a kind of diplomatic struggle as to the limits of the ecclesiastical and imperial powers, the former seeking to make the latter its tool, the latter to avoid the responsibility of seeming to act in that character.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Matthew. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Matthew 27:1 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 Matthew 27:1
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge