John 11:53
Then from that day forth they took counsel together for to put him to death.
Original Language Analysis
ἀπ'
from
G575
ἀπ'
from
Strong's:
G575
Word #:
1 of 9
"off," i.e., away (from something near), in various senses (of place, time, or relation; literal or figurative)
ἐκείνης
that
G1565
ἐκείνης
that
Strong's:
G1565
Word #:
2 of 9
that one (or (neuter) thing); often intensified by the article prefixed
τῆς
G3588
τῆς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
4 of 9
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἡμέρας
day
G2250
ἡμέρας
day
Strong's:
G2250
Word #:
5 of 9
day, i.e., (literally) the time space between dawn and dark, or the whole 24 hours (but several days were usually reckoned by the jews as inclusive of
συνεβουλεύσαντο
forth they took counsel together
G4823
συνεβουλεύσαντο
forth they took counsel together
Strong's:
G4823
Word #:
6 of 9
to give (or take) advice jointly, i.e., recommend, deliberate or determine
Historical Context
The Sanhedrin's official decision made Jesus a marked man. From this point, His movements became strategic, avoiding premature arrest until Passover's divinely appointed time.
Questions for Reflection
- How can the greatest evidence produce the greatest opposition in hardened hearts?
- What does this official decision teach about the cross's inevitability in God's plan?
- In what ways do human plots against God ironically accomplish His purposes?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
From this day forward, the Sanhedrin formally plotted Jesus' death. Lazarus' resurrection became the tipping point—the greatest sign producing the greatest opposition. The phrase 'took counsel together' indicates official action, moving from occasional hostility to systematic conspiracy. This demonstrates the hardness of human hearts: even resurrection evidence can harden rather than soften rejection. Their plot fulfills prophecy (Ps 2:2) and divine plan. What appears as human initiative serves God's redemptive purposes established before time.