And they were filled with madness; and communed one with another what they might do to Jesus. The storm was already gathering. From this time we gather from the words of SS. Matthew and Mark, that in the minds of others as well as in the mind of Jesus, the thought of his death was ever present.
The thought-leaders of the Jews?봳he men whose position was secured as long as the rabbinic teaching held sway in the hearts of the people, but no longer?봣rom this hour resolved upon the death of that strange mighty Reformer.
He was, said they, an impostor, a fanatic; one who led men's minds astray. Had they no doubts, we ask; no qualms of conscience, no deep searchings of heart? Were these great ones of earth really persuaded that he was a deceiver?