Luke 14:6
And they could not answer him again to these things.
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 7
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
ἴσχυσαν
they could
G2480
ἴσχυσαν
they could
Strong's:
G2480
Word #:
3 of 7
to have (or exercise) force (literally or figuratively)
αὐτῷ
him
G846
αὐτῷ
him
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
5 of 7
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
Cross References
Historical Context
This incident occurred during Jesus' journey to Jerusalem (Luke 9:51-19:27), a period of intensifying opposition. Despite repeatedly silencing critics with unassailable arguments, Jesus faced growing hostility. Within months, these same religious leaders would engineer His crucifixion. The pattern teaches an important lesson: apologetics has its place, but rational argumentation alone doesn't save. Hearts must be changed, not merely minds informed. The gospel requires both clear reasoning (1 Peter 3:15) and spiritual illumination (1 Corinthians 2:14).
Questions for Reflection
- What does the Pharisees' inability to answer despite being intellectually defeated teach about the limits of apologetics?
- How should Christians respond when opponents are silenced but remain unrepentant?
- What is the relationship between intellectual argumentation and spiritual conversion?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The outcome: 'And they could not answer him again to these things.' Their continued silence—'they could not answer' (οὐκ ἴσχυσαν ἀνταποκριθῆναι, ouk ischysan antapokrithēnai, they were not able to reply)—indicates defeat. Jesus' logic was irrefutable. They couldn't deny they'd rescue animals, so they couldn't logically condemn healing humans. Their silence wasn't agreement but stubborn refusal to acknowledge truth. Pride prevented repentance. This pattern repeats throughout Jesus' ministry—His wisdom silences opponents but doesn't convert them. Intellectual defeat doesn't guarantee spiritual transformation. Only Holy Spirit conviction produces genuine repentance.