New Testament
John 11:47
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
So the chief priests and the Pharisees gathered the council and said, "What are we going to do? This man is performing many signs.
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Then gathered the chief priests and the Pharisees a council, and said, What do we? for this man doeth many miracles.
What John 11:47 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the chief priests and Pharisees convene a council to discuss the growing influence of Jesus, who is performing many miraculous signs. They are concerned about the implications of His actions and the potential threat He poses to their authority and the stability of their religious system. The miracles of Jesus are drawing large crowds and causing people to believe in Him, which raises fears among the religious leaders about losing their power and control. This moment highlights the tension between Jesus and the established religious authorities, as they grapple with the challenge of a new movement that could disrupt their traditions and beliefs. Their question, 'What are we going to do?' reflects their anxiety and the urgency of the situation, as they seek a way to respond to the undeniable impact of Jesus' ministry.
How to apply John 11:47 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on how we respond to new ideas and movements in our lives. Are we open to change, or do we cling to our established beliefs out of fear? Embracing faith may require us to step outside our comfort zones and consider new perspectives.
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: The Plot to Kill Jesus (John 11:45–57)
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Photo: Gary Todd (Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.), via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication. Source. Location: Southern end of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem Old City. Resized for the web.
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Keep studying John 11:47
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At a Glance — the Book of John
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 85-95
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- All believers
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does John 11:47 mean?
John 11:47 describes the chief priests and Pharisees gathering to discuss the impact of Jesus' miracles. They are worried about His growing influence and the threat it poses to their authority.
What is the significance of the council in John 11:47?
The council in John 11:47 signifies the religious leaders' attempt to address the challenge posed by Jesus. It highlights their concern over maintaining control and the potential disruption of their established beliefs.
What are the main themes in John 11:47?
The main themes in John 11:47 include religious authority, the miracles of Jesus, fear of change, and the conflict between faith and tradition. These themes illustrate the tension between established leaders and new movements.
Why were the Pharisees concerned in John 11:47?
The Pharisees were concerned in John 11:47 because Jesus was performing many miracles, attracting large crowds and followers. They feared losing their influence and the stability of their religious system.
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