Luke 6:11 – “But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law were furious and began to discuss with one another what they might do to Jesus.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
After witnessing Jesus heal the man with the shriveled hand, the Pharisees and teachers of the law are not amazed or humbled. Instead, they become furious and start plotting against Him. Their anger comes from a place of pride and fear—Jesus’ authority and compassion challenge their legalistic control over the people. Instead of acknowledging the miracle as a sign of God’s presence, they see it as a threat to their power and traditions. This moment marks a significant shift, as the religious leaders begin to actively plan how they can oppose and eventually eliminate Jesus.
Their response highlights the danger of hard-heartedness. Rather than rejoicing in the man’s healing, they are consumed by their desire to maintain control and discredit Jesus.
Historical Context
By Jesus’ time, the Pharisees had significant influence over Jewish religious life. They were strict interpreters of the law and held to a complex system of rules meant to ensure obedience to God’s commandments. However, they often prioritized their traditions over the heart of the law—love, mercy, and justice. The Sabbath, for example, had become a day burdened with restrictions instead of a day of rest and reflection as God intended (Exodus 20:8-11).
The Pharisees’ anger toward Jesus stems from several factors: He was gaining a following, He exposed their hypocrisy, and He interpreted the law in ways that undermined their authority. His healing on the Sabbath was the final straw, leading them to begin plotting His downfall.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights the human tendency to resist God’s work when it challenges our comfort, pride, or traditions. The Pharisees’ response shows how religious people can miss what God is doing because they are too focused on their own power and rules. Their reaction also illustrates the reality of spiritual opposition to Jesus. Throughout His ministry, Jesus faced resistance from those who were more concerned with preserving their authority than embracing the truth of who He was.
Theologically, this verse also demonstrates the clash between legalism and grace. Jesus’ healing of the man was an act of grace and mercy, but the Pharisees’ legalism blinded them to the significance of the miracle. This tension between grace and legalism continues to be a relevant issue in the church today.
Literary Analysis
Luke uses contrast in this verse to emphasize the hardness of the Pharisees’ hearts. The miracle should have sparked praise and amazement, but instead, it provokes anger and plotting. The word “furious” reflects a deep, irrational anger—a response that is disproportionate to what Jesus actually did. Luke’s choice to highlight their immediate reaction sets the stage for the growing conflict that will eventually lead to Jesus’ crucifixion.
The phrase “discuss with one another what they might do to Jesus” foreshadows the plot to kill Him, making this verse a turning point in the Gospel narrative.
Biblical Cross-References
- Exodus 20:8-11 – The command to observe the Sabbath, which the Pharisees misapplied.
- Isaiah 5:20 – “Woe to those who call evil good and good evil,” reflecting the Pharisees’ distorted sense of righteousness.
- Mark 3:6 – A parallel account where the Pharisees plot with the Herodians to kill Jesus.
- John 11:47-53 – The religious leaders plan to kill Jesus after He raises Lazarus from the dead.
- Acts 5:33 – The continuation of religious opposition to Jesus, as seen in the early church’s persecution.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse serves as a warning against the dangers of legalism, pride, and spiritual blindness. It challenges us to ask whether we are open to God working in ways that may challenge our traditions or expectations. Are we so set in our routines that we miss the miracles happening around us? The Pharisees’ reaction shows how easily we can let our pride or need for control block us from experiencing God’s blessings.
It’s also a reminder that following Jesus often brings opposition. Just as Jesus faced resistance for doing good, Christians today may encounter criticism or hostility for living out their faith. This verse encourages believers to remain faithful and compassionate, even in the face of opposition.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is seen in how Jesus doesn’t let opposition stop Him from showing compassion. Even though He knows the Pharisees are plotting against Him, Jesus continues His mission of healing and restoration. This reflects God’s unwavering love for humanity. He doesn’t withhold His blessings because of human rebellion or hard hearts. Instead, His love is persistent, offering grace even to those who reject it.
The Pharisees’ reaction, however, also highlights God’s patience. Instead of immediately punishing their opposition, God allows them time to repent and recognize the truth. His love is patient, even with those who oppose Him.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse foreshadows the increasing hostility that will lead to Jesus’ crucifixion. The religious leaders’ anger and plotting are part of the larger plan of salvation. Even though they intend to harm Him, God uses their actions to accomplish His purpose—Jesus’ death on the cross to redeem humanity (Acts 2:23).
Jesus’ response to their hostility also reveals His role as the suffering servant prophesied in Isaiah 53:3-5. He is rejected and opposed, yet He willingly endures it for the sake of those He came to save. His obedience to the Father’s will, even in the face of opposition, sets an example for believers to follow.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Have you ever seen someone resist change or God’s work because it challenged their comfort or traditions? How did you respond?
- What steps can you take to avoid becoming spiritually blind like the Pharisees in this passage?
- When you face opposition for doing good or living out your faith, how can you stay encouraged?
- What does this passage teach you about the importance of humility in your relationship with God?
- How can you be more open to recognizing and celebrating the ways God is working in your life and in the lives of others?