Luke 20:19 (KJV)

What does Luke 20:19 mean?

Luke 20:19 describes how the chief priests and scribes wanted to arrest Jesus right away because they realized he had told a parable that criticized them, but they were afraid of how the people would react. The religious leaders felt threatened and exposed by Jesus’ words, so they looked for a way to silence him without causing an uproar.

This moment happens in Jerusalem during the last week of Jesus’ life, as he teaches publicly in the temple. The “parable” refers to the story Jesus had just told about wicked tenants, which the leaders understood was aimed at them. Their fear of the people shows that Jesus was popular with the crowds, making the leaders cautious about acting openly against him.

The Greek behind Luke 20:19

• The word for “parable” is παραβολή (parabolē), which means a story or illustration used to make a point. Here, it’s clear the leaders understood the story was not just a general lesson but a pointed message about them.
• The word for “feared” is ἐφοβήθησαν (ephobēthēsan), from φοβέω (phobeō), meaning to be afraid or to fear. This highlights that the leaders’ hesitation was not out of respect for Jesus, but out of concern for their own safety and reputation with the people.
• The phrase “lay hands on him” uses ἐπιβαλεῖν (epibalein) τὰς χεῖρας (tas cheiras), literally “to throw hands upon.” This is a common Greek way to say they wanted to seize or arrest him, showing their intent to use force if they could do so safely.

Why Luke 20:19 matters

• This verse clarifies that Jesus’ parables were not always mysterious; sometimes his audience, especially his critics, understood exactly what he meant.
• The verse highlights the tension between Jesus and the religious authorities, showing how his teaching directly challenged their power.
• It also shows the influence of public opinion in the events leading up to Jesus’ arrest, as the leaders’ fear of the crowd delayed their actions against him.