Topical Encyclopedia Malice, defined as the intention or desire to do evil or cause harm, is a significant theme in the interactions between the Jewish leaders and Jesus Christ as depicted in the New Testament. The Gospels provide numerous accounts of the religious authorities' hostility and antagonism toward Jesus, which ultimately culminated in His crucifixion.Pharisees and Sadducees' Opposition The Pharisees and Sadducees, two prominent Jewish sects during Jesus' time, frequently opposed Him. Their malice is evident in their attempts to undermine His authority and teachings. In Matthew 12:14 , it is recorded, "But the Pharisees went out and plotted how they might kill Jesus." This verse highlights their intent to eliminate Jesus as a threat to their religious and social standing. Challenges to Jesus' Authority The Jewish leaders often sought to challenge Jesus' authority and discredit Him in the eyes of the people. In Matthew 22:15 , it states, "Then the Pharisees went out and plotted to trap Jesus in His words." Their efforts to ensnare Him with difficult questions and theological traps were driven by malice, as they sought to find grounds to accuse Him. Accusations and False Witnesses The malice of the Jewish leaders is further demonstrated in their use of false witnesses to accuse Jesus. Mark 14:55-56 notes, "Now the chief priests and the whole Sanhedrin were seeking testimony against Jesus to put Him to death, but they did not find any. For many bore false witness against Him, but their testimony was inconsistent." Their willingness to resort to deceit underscores their deep-seated animosity. Conspiracy to Arrest and Kill Jesus The conspiracy to arrest and kill Jesus was a direct manifestation of the leaders' malice. John 11:53 records, "So from that day on they plotted to kill Him." This decision followed the raising of Lazarus, an event that intensified their fear of losing influence and control over the people. Manipulation of Roman Authorities The Jewish leaders' malice extended to manipulating Roman authorities to achieve their ends. In John 19:12 , they pressured Pilate by declaring, "If you release this man, you are not a friend of Caesar. Anyone who declares himself a king is defying Caesar." Their political maneuvering was aimed at ensuring Jesus' execution, despite Pilate's initial reluctance. Mockery and Scorn Even during Jesus' crucifixion, the malice of the Jewish leaders was evident. Matthew 27:41-42 describes how "the chief priests, scribes, and elders mocked Him, saying, 'He saved others, but He cannot save Himself! He is the King of Israel; let Him come down now from the cross, and we will believe in Him.'" Their scornful taunts were a final expression of their deep-seated hostility. Throughout the Gospels, the malice of the Jewish leaders toward Jesus is portrayed as a driving force behind their actions. Their opposition was rooted in a combination of fear, jealousy, and a desire to maintain their authority, ultimately leading to the fulfillment of the divine plan through Jesus' sacrificial death. Nave's Topical Index Matthew 27:18For he knew that for envy they had delivered him. Nave's Topical Index Mark 12:12 Mark 15:10 Luke 11:53,54 Library The Destruction of Jerusalem. The Destruction of Jerusalem From Persecutor to Disciple In Joseph's Tomb In his Temple "Is not this the Carpenter's Son?" Gethsemane The Last Journey from Galilee General Index. John the Baptist's Person and Preaching. Resources Who was John Foxe? What is Foxe's Book of Martyrs? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about envy? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about being nosey? | GotQuestions.org Malice: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Malfeasance in office: The Leasees of the Vineyard, in One of the Parables of Jesus Malfeasance in office: The Steward Mentioned in One of the Parables of Jesus Malice: A Hindrance to Growth in Grace Malice: Ahithophel Toward David Malice: Ammonites Toward the Israelites Malice: Brings Its own Punishment Malice: Christian Liberty not to be a Cloak For Malice: General Scriptures Concerning Malice: Herod Antipas Toward Jesus Malice: Incompatible With the Worship of God Malice: James and John Toward the Samaritans Malice: Joseph's Brothers Toward Joseph Malice: Masters of the Sorcerous Damsel Toward Paul Malice: Nebuchadrezzar Toward Zedekiah Malice: Philistines Toward Isaac Malice: Potiphar's Wife Toward Joseph Malice: Pray for Those Who Injure You Through Malice: Samaritans Toward the Jews Malice: Springs from an Evil Heart Malice: The Jewish Leaders Toward Jesus Malice: The Wicked: Filled With Malice: The Wicked: Speak With Malice: The Wicked: Visit Saints With Related Terms Unrighteousness (57 Occurrences) |
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