Luke 22:2 (KJV)

What does Luke 22:2 mean?

Luke 22:2 describes how the chief priests and scribes were looking for a way to kill Jesus because they were afraid of how the people would react. The verse shows that their fear of the people's response influenced their secretive and cautious approach.

The setting is just before Jesus’ arrest in Jerusalem, as religious leaders secretly plot against him. The “chief priests and scribes” were influential Jewish authorities, and their fear was not of Jesus himself, but of the crowds who supported him. This verse highlights the tension between the leaders’ intentions and the popularity Jesus had with ordinary people.

The Greek behind Luke 22:2

• ἐφοβοῦντο (phobounto, “feared”): This word means to be afraid or deeply concerned. Here, it shows that the leaders’ actions were driven by anxiety over public opinion, not just by opposition to Jesus.
• ἐζήτουν (ezētoun, “sought”): This verb means to seek or look for, often with determination. The use here suggests an ongoing, active search for an opportunity, not a one-time thought.
• ἀποκτείνωσιν (apokteinōsin, “kill”): This word means to kill or put to death. The verse makes clear that their intent was not just to silence or discredit Jesus, but to end his life.

Why Luke 22:2 matters

• Luke 22:2 clarifies that the religious leaders’ plot against Jesus was motivated by fear of the people, not just theological disagreement or personal rivalry.
• The verse sets up the atmosphere of secrecy and tension that leads to Judas’s betrayal, helping readers understand why the leaders needed an inside accomplice.
• This detail helps explain why Jesus’ arrest and execution happened at night and away from the crowds, highlighting the leaders’ concern about public backlash.