The Life Of Jesus Christ In Its Historical Connexion

The few hours that intervened between the end of Christ's public ministry and his arrest were devoted to instructing and comforting his disciples in view of his approaching departure, and the severe conflicts they were to undergo. In these conversations he displayed all his heavenly love and calmness of soul; his loftiness and his humility. In order that our contemplation of these sweet scenes may not be interrupted, we shall, before entering upon them, glance at the machinations of his enemies which brought about his capture and his death.

As we have seen, the Sanhedrim had resolved upon his death; all that remained was to decide how and when it should be brought about. The time of the feast itself would have been unpropitious for the attempt; [698] it must be made, therefore, either before or after. The former was the safest, and therefore the favorite plan. An unexpected and most favourable opening as afforded, by the proposition of Judas Iscariot, to deliver him into their hands. [699]