John 18:30
They answered and said unto him, If he were not a malefactor, we would not have delivered him up unto thee.
Original Language Analysis
ἀπεκρίθησαν
They answered
G611
ἀπεκρίθησαν
They answered
Strong's:
G611
Word #:
1 of 14
to conclude for oneself, i.e., (by implication) to respond; by hebraism (compare h6030) to begin to speak (where an address is expected)
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
2 of 14
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
αὐτόν
him
G846
αὐτόν
him
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
4 of 14
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
μὴ
G3361
μὴ
Strong's:
G3361
Word #:
6 of 14
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
οὗτος
he
G3778
οὗτος
he
Strong's:
G3778
Word #:
8 of 14
the he (she or it), i.e., this or that (often with article repeated)
Historical Context
The Sanhedrin's evasion forced them to later fabricate political charges (Luke 23:2): forbidding tribute to Caesar and claiming kingship—both lies, but calculated to alarm Roman authority. They couldn't admit their real grievance (blasphemy for claiming divinity) because Rome didn't execute for theological disputes.
Questions for Reflection
- How does their appeal to institutional authority ('trust us, we're experts') rather than evidence mirror modern abuses of power?
- What does their inability to specify charges reveal about the nature of truth versus political expediency?
- When have you been tempted to trust religious or institutional authority without examining the actual evidence?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
If he were not a malefactor, we would not have delivered him up unto thee—The Greek κακὸν ποιῶν (kakon poiōn, 'doing evil') is vague rather than specific. Their response evades Pilate's question, essentially arguing: 'Trust our judgment—we wouldn't bring Him if He weren't guilty.' This circular reasoning exposes their inability to articulate legitimate charges.
The verb παρεδώκαμεν (paredōkamen, 'delivered up') is the same word used for Judas's betrayal (παραδίδωμι, paradidōmi). The chief priests who condemned Judas's treachery now employ identical action. Their appeal to their own authority rather than evidence reveals corruption masquerading as expertise.