Luke 20:26
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 20:26
26 And they could not take hold of his words before the people: and they marvelled at his answer, and held their peace.
Chapter Context
Luke 20 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, faith, salvation. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christians needed to understand their place in the Roman world.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-47: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Luke and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Luke 20:26
26 And they could not take hold of his words before the people: and they marvelled at his answer, and held their peace.
Analysis
They could not take hold of his words before the people (οὐκ ἴσχυσαν ἐπιλαβέσθαι αὐτοῦ ῥήματος, ouk ischysan epilabesthai autou rhēmatos)—the verb ἐπιλαμβάνομαι (epilambanomai) means to seize, catch, or arrest. They couldn't catch his words to use as evidence. Their entrapment failed completely.
They marvelled at his answer (ἐθαύμασαν ἐπὶ τῇ ἀποκρίσει, ethaumasan epi tē apokrisei)—θαυμάζω (thaumazō) expresses amazement or wonder. Even his enemies recognized the wisdom that escaped their trap. And held their peace (ἐσίγησαν, esigēsan)—they were silenced, their mouths stopped. Wisdom vindicated itself, leaving craftiness speechless.
Historical Context
Public debate was central to rabbinic culture and Greco-Roman philosophical tradition. A teacher's ability to answer difficult questions enhanced his reputation. The spies' silence before the crowd represented public defeat—they couldn't report Jesus for sedition, but their failure also elevated his standing with the people.
Reflection
- What does it reveal about truth that even Jesus's enemies marveled at his wisdom?
- How should we respond when our attempts to trap or discredit others fail spectacularly?
- When have you been silenced by an answer that exposed your own craftiness or wrong motives?
Word Studies
- Word: λόγος (Logos) G4487 - Word, reason, message
Cross-References
- Word: Luke 20:20