Luke 6:11
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 6:11
11 And they were filled with madness; and communed one with another what they might do to Jesus.
Chapter Context
Luke 6 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of salvation, truth, holiness. 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 21-49: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. 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 6:11
11 And they were filled with madness; and communed one with another what they might do to Jesus.
Analysis
And they were filled with madness (ἐπλήσθησαν ἀνοίας, eplēsthēsan anoias)—anoia (ἀνοία) means senseless rage, irrational fury, mindlessness. Confronted with undeniable evidence of Jesus' divine power and compassion, they responded not with wonder but with insane hatred. They communed one with another what they might do to Jesus (διελάλουν πρὸς ἀλλήλους τί ἂν ποιήσαιεν τῷ Ἰησοῦ, dielāloun pros allēlous ti an poiēsaien tō Iēsou)—plotting his destruction even as he demonstrated life-giving power.
This fulfills Jesus' earlier question (v. 9)—while he saved life, they plotted to destroy it. Their madness reveals the ultimate danger of hardened religiosity: it can witness miracles yet remain unmoved, see God's glory yet seek to extinguish it. This same council would eventually crucify him.
Historical Context
The religious establishment's hostility to Jesus intensified with each Sabbath controversy. Earlier they criticized his disciples for plucking grain (Luke 6:1-5); now they plotted violence. This escalating opposition foreshadows the cross. Their madness (ἀνοία, anoia) contrasts with the Sabbath's purpose—rest, worship, and delight in God's goodness. Instead of rejoicing that a man was healed, they raged that their authority was challenged. This shows how institutions can prioritize self-preservation over truth and mercy.
Reflection
- How can religious commitment become so hardened that it responds to God's work with rage rather than worship?
- What evidence of Jesus' power are you resisting because accepting it would require changing your life or theology?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Ecclesiastes 9:3, Acts 5:33