And they could not take hold of his words before the people: and they marvelled at his answer, and held their peace.

LUKE 20:26KJV
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Luke 20:26 (KJV)

What does Luke 20:26 mean?

Luke 20:26 describes how Jesus’ opponents were unable to trap him with his words in front of the crowd, and instead, they were amazed by his answer and stopped trying to challenge him further. The verse shows that Jesus’ response left his critics speechless and unable to accuse him.

In this scene, religious leaders are trying to catch Jesus saying something they could use against him, especially about paying taxes to Caesar. Jesus’ wise answer not only avoids their trap but also impresses everyone listening. The verse highlights both the skillfulness of Jesus’ reply and the effect it had on those who wanted to discredit him.

The Greek behind Luke 20:26

  • The word translated “could” is ἴσχυσαν (ischysan), which often means “to be able” or “to have strength.” Here, it emphasizes that Jesus’ opponents simply did not have the ability or power to catch him in his words.
  • The word for “held their peace” is ἐσιώπησαν (esiōpēsan), meaning “they were silent.” This shows not just that they stopped talking, but that they were left without any response, highlighting their defeat in the exchange.
  • The word for “marvelled” is ἐθαύμασαν (ethaumasan), meaning “they were amazed” or “astonished.” This points to the strong impression Jesus’ answer made, even on those who were against him.

Why Luke 20:26 matters

  • Luke 20:26 clears up the idea that Jesus’ opponents were clever enough to outwit him; instead, the verse shows that his wisdom left them unable to respond.
  • The verse emphasizes the public nature of the exchange—Jesus’ answer was not just for his critics, but for the whole crowd, showing his authority and insight.
  • This moment connects to the larger theme in Luke 20, where Jesus repeatedly faces challenges from religious leaders and consistently responds in ways that reveal his understanding and authority.

Where else these words appear

“answer” Greek G612 · used in 4 verses

  • Luke 2:47 And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers.
  • John 1:22 Then said they unto him, Who art thou? that we may give an answer to them that sent us. What sayest thou of thyself?
  • John 19:9 And went again into the judgment hall, and saith unto Jesus, Whence art thou? But Jesus gave him no answer.

“before” Greek G1726 · used in 5 verses

  • Mark 2:12 And immediately he arose, took up the bed, and went forth before them all; insomuch that they were all amazed, and glorified God, saying, We never saw it on this fashion.
  • Luke 24:19 And he said unto them, What things? And they said unto him, Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, which was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people:
  • Acts 7:10 And delivered him out of all his afflictions, and gave him favour and wisdom in the sight of Pharaoh king of Egypt; and he made him governor over Egypt and all his house.

“peace” Greek G4601 · used in 9 verses

  • Luke 9:36 And when the voice was past, Jesus was found alone. And they kept it close, and told no man in those days any of those things which they had seen.
  • Acts 15:12 Then all the multitude kept silence, and gave audience to Barnabas and Paul, declaring what miracles and wonders God had wrought among the Gentiles by them.
  • 1 Corinthians 14:28 But if there be no interpreter, let him keep silence in the church; and let him speak to himself, and to God.

“hold” Greek G1949 · used in 18 verses

  • Matthew 14:31 And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?
  • Luke 23:26 And as they led him away, they laid hold upon one Simon, a Cyrenian, coming out of the country, and on him they laid the cross, that he might bear it after Jesus.
  • Acts 21:33 Then the chief captain came near, and took him, and commanded him to be bound with two chains; and demanded who he was, and what he had done.