Matthew 22:15

KJV

¶ Then went the Pharisees, and took counsel how they might entangle him in [his] talk.

KJV (with Strong's)

Then {G5119} went {G4198} the Pharisees {G5330}, and took {G2983} counsel {G4824} how {G3704} they might entangle {G3802} him {G846} in {G1722} his talk {G3056}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Then the P'rushim went away and put together a plan to trap Yeshua with his own words.

Berean Standard Bible

Then the Pharisees went out and conspired to trap Jesus in His words.

American Standard Version

Then went the Pharisees, and took counsel how they might ensnare him in his talk.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Matthew 22:15 captures a pivotal moment in Jesus' ministry, immediately following His parables that exposed the spiritual bankruptcy of the Jewish leadership. Here, the Pharisees, deeply offended and seeking to discredit or condemn Jesus, convene a deliberate council to devise a strategy. Their aim is to craft a question so cunningly designed that Jesus' answer, regardless of its content, would provide grounds for His arrest, either by implicating Him in religious blasphemy or political sedition against the Roman authorities. This verse sets the stage for a series of calculated confrontations intended to ensnare the Son of God in His own words.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within the final week of Jesus' earthly ministry, as recorded in the Gospel of Matthew. It directly follows a series of parables Jesus delivered in the Temple, which were thinly veiled condemnations of the Jewish religious establishment. The [Parable of the Two Sons](/matthew/21-28 "Matthew 21:28-32 - The Parable of the Two Sons"), the [Parable of the Wicked Tenants](/matthew/21-33 "Matthew 21:33-46 - The Parable of the Wicked Tenants"), and the [Parable of the Wedding Feast](/matthew/22-1-14 "Matthew 22:1-14 - The Parable of the Wedding Feast") all depicted the rejection of God's messengers and the coming judgment upon those who refused His invitation. These parables, particularly the one where the tenants kill the landowner's son, clearly indicated that Jesus understood Himself to be the Son, and that the religious leaders were the wicked tenants. The Pharisees, recognizing that Jesus was speaking about them (as noted in [Matthew 21:45](/matthew/21-45 "Matthew 21:45 - The Chief Priests and Pharisees Understand")), were enraged and sought to seize Him, but feared the crowds. Thus, Matthew 22:15 marks their shift from direct confrontation to cunning entrapment.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Pharisees were one of the most influential Jewish religious sects of the time, known for their strict adherence to the Mosaic Law and their oral traditions. They held significant sway over the common people. Their opposition to Jesus stemmed from various factors: His perceived disregard for their traditions, His claims of divine authority, His association with "sinners," and His challenge to their religious power structure. Jerusalem, under Roman occupation, was a volatile environment. The Jewish leaders, while possessing religious authority, were ultimately answerable to Rome. Any accusation against Jesus had to be carefully framed to avoid inciting a popular uprising while also satisfying Roman legal requirements. The Pharisees' "counsel" would have involved a careful deliberation on how to formulate a question that would force Jesus into a position where He would either contradict Jewish law, offend the Roman authorities, or alienate the masses, thereby providing grounds for His arrest and condemnation.
* **Key Themes:** This passage introduces several profound themes. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **Calculated Opposition** against divine truth. The Pharisees' action of "taking counsel" underscores a deliberate, strategic, and malicious intent to destroy Jesus, rather than genuinely seeking understanding or truth. This contrasts sharply with Jesus' open and truthful teaching. Secondly, it sets the stage for the theme of **Divine Wisdom vs. Human Cunning**. The religious leaders believed their human intellect and legalistic traps could outwit Jesus, but time and again, Jesus demonstrated a wisdom that transcended their schemes, turning their own questions back on them or exposing their hypocrisy, as seen in His response to their question about authority in [Matthew 21:23-27](/matthew/21-23-27 "Matthew 21:23-27 - Jesus' Authority Questioned"). Lastly, the passage reveals the profound **Spiritual Blindness and Malice** of those who rejected Jesus. Despite witnessing His miracles and hearing His teachings, their hearts were hardened, driven by envy and a desire to maintain their power, fulfilling the prophetic words about those who would reject the Messiah (cf. [Isaiah 53:3](/isaiah/53-3 "Isaiah 53:3 - He Was Despised and Rejected")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **went (Greek, _poreúomai_):** This verb, often translated as "to go" or "to journey," carries a sense of deliberate movement or purpose. In this context, it signifies that the Pharisees did not stumble upon this confrontation accidentally but actively and intentionally "went" to execute their plan. It emphasizes their initiative and determined pursuit of Jesus.
* **took counsel (Greek, _lambánō symboúlion_):** This phrase combines "to take" (_lambánō_) with "counsel" or "advisement" (_symboúlion_). It denotes a formal, deliberate act of consultation or deliberation. This wasn't a casual conversation but a strategic meeting where a plan was meticulously formulated. The term _symboúlion_ can also refer to a deliberative body, suggesting a formal assembly of these religious leaders to plot against Jesus.
* **entangle (Greek, _pagideúō_):** Derived from _pagís_, meaning "a trap" or "snare," this verb literally means "to set a trap" or "to ensnare." Figuratively, it implies catching someone in a difficult or compromising position from which they cannot escape without harm. This word vividly illustrates the Pharisees' malicious intent: they sought to create a verbal dilemma for Jesus, a "no-win" situation where any answer would incriminate Him.
* **talk (Greek, _lógos_):** While often translated simply as "talk" or "word," _lógos_ is a rich term in Greek, encompassing not just spoken words but also reasoning, discourse, and even the underlying thought or message. In this context, the Pharisees sought to entangle Jesus "in his _lógos_," meaning in His teaching, His message, His very reasoning. They aimed to exploit the profound implications of His statements.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then went the Pharisees":** This opening clause highlights the initiative of the Pharisees. "Then" (G5119 _tóte_) indicates a direct consequence of the preceding events—Jesus' parables had provoked them to action. Their movement was purposeful, not accidental, underscoring their deliberate intent to confront and undermine Jesus.
* **"and took counsel":** This phrase reveals the strategic nature of their opposition. It implies a formal deliberation, a meeting where they meticulously planned their approach. This was not a spontaneous outburst but a calculated conspiracy, demonstrating the depth of their animosity and their determination to find a legal or religious pretext for Jesus' downfall.
* **"how they might entangle him":** This clause explicitly states their objective: to ensnare Jesus. The Greek word _pagideúō_ (G3802) vividly portrays their intent to set a verbal trap, a dilemma from which Jesus could not escape without either compromising His divine authority, inciting the wrath of the Roman authorities, or alienating the Jewish populace. Their goal was to force Him into a "no-win" situation.
* **"in his talk":** This final phrase specifies the arena of their attack—Jesus' own words and teachings. They sought to use His discourse, His profound _lógos_ (G3056), against Him. This indicates their belief that Jesus' teachings contained vulnerabilities they could exploit, or that they could twist His words to serve their malicious agenda, demonstrating their cunning and their profound misunderstanding of His divine wisdom.

#### Literary Devices
Matthew 22:15 employs several significant literary devices. **Foreshadowing** is prominent, as this verse sets the stage for the escalating conflict that will ultimately lead to Jesus' arrest and crucifixion. The "counsel" taken by the Pharisees here anticipates the formal trials and condemnations Jesus will face. **Irony** is also evident: the religious leaders, who should have been shepherds of God's people and guardians of truth, instead become cunning plotters against the very Son of God. Their attempt to "entangle" Him reveals their own spiritual entrapment by malice and pride. Furthermore, the use of "entangle" (Greek _pagideúō_) functions as a powerful **Metaphor**, portraying Jesus as prey and the Pharisees as hunters setting a snare. This vivid imagery emphasizes the deceptive and predatory nature of their scheme, highlighting the danger Jesus faced from those who outwardly appeared pious but inwardly harbored murderous intent.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse underscores the profound theological truth of humanity's rebellion against divine authority, even when confronted with undeniable truth and grace. The Pharisees' actions reveal a hardened heart, preferring their own power and tradition over the living Word of God. Their attempt to "entangle" Jesus highlights the futility of human cunning against divine wisdom. Ultimately, their schemes, though seemingly successful in leading to Jesus' crucifixion, were ironically part of God's sovereign plan for redemption. This passage serves as a stark reminder that opposition to God's truth often stems from a desire to maintain control and a refusal to submit to His authority, a theme echoed throughout biblical history.

* [Psalm 2:1-2](/psalms/2-1-2 "Psalm 2:1-2 - The Nations Rage Against the Lord's Anointed")
* [Proverbs 26:27](/proverbs/26-27 "Proverbs 26:27 - He Who Digs a Pit Will Fall Into It")
* [1 Corinthians 1:20](/1_corinthians/1-20 "1 Corinthians 1:20 - God Makes the Wisdom of the World Foolish")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Matthew 22:15 provides profound insights for believers navigating a world often hostile to the truth of the Gospel. Just as Jesus faced calculated opposition from those who claimed religious authority, Christians today can expect to encounter similar attempts to discredit, misrepresent, or "entangle" their faith. This verse calls us to cultivate spiritual discernment, recognizing that not all questions or challenges are genuinely seeking truth; some are designed to trap or undermine. Our response, like Jesus', should not be rooted in human cleverness or defensiveness, but in a humble reliance on divine wisdom. When confronted with complex ethical dilemmas or verbal attacks, we are encouraged to seek the Holy Spirit's guidance, trusting that God will provide the words and clarity needed to respond truthfully and graciously, without compromising our convictions. Standing firm in the truth, even when it is unpopular or provokes hostility, is a testament to our faith and a reflection of Christ's unwavering commitment to His Father's will.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might I encounter "entangling" questions or challenges to my faith in my daily life?**
* **How can I cultivate discernment to recognize the motives behind such questions, whether they are genuine inquiries or attempts to trap?**
* **What practical steps can I take to rely more on God's wisdom rather than my own intellect when facing difficult conversations or opposition?**
* **How does Jesus' example in this passage encourage me to stand firm in truth, even when it is costly or unpopular?**

### FAQ
**Why were the Pharisees so determined to "entangle" Jesus?**

Answer: The Pharisees were determined to entangle Jesus primarily because He posed a direct threat to their authority, prestige, and interpretation of the Law. His teachings often contradicted their traditions, His miracles drew large crowds away from their influence, and His claims of divine authority were seen as blasphemous. The parables Jesus had just told (like the [Parable of the Wicked Tenants in Matthew 21:33-46](/matthew/21-33-46 "Matthew 21:33-46 - The Parable of the Wicked Tenants")) had explicitly condemned them, making their animosity personal and urgent. They sought to find a legal basis, either religious (blasphemy) or political (sedition against Rome), to arrest and silence Him, as they feared both His growing popularity and the potential Roman intervention if His movement was perceived as rebellious.

**What kind of "talk" were they trying to entangle Him in?**

Answer: They were trying to entangle Jesus in His _lógos_ (Greek for "talk" or "word"), which encompasses His teachings, His pronouncements, and His public discourse. They wanted to force Him into a dilemma where any answer He gave would be problematic. For instance, if He advocated against paying taxes to Caesar, He would be guilty of sedition against Rome. If He advocated for paying taxes, He would alienate the Jewish populace who resented Roman rule and taxes. Their goal was to exploit the complexities of His message and the political-religious tensions of the time to catch Him in a self-incriminating statement, as seen in their subsequent question about taxes in [Matthew 22:17](/matthew/22-17 "Matthew 22:17 - The Question About Paying Taxes").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Matthew 22:15, depicting the calculated malice of the Pharisees, profoundly highlights the Christ-centered fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. The "entanglement" they sought was ultimately part of the divine design, as the Son of God willingly entered into the snare of human sin and opposition to accomplish salvation. Jesus, the embodiment of divine wisdom, did not fall prey to their cunning, but rather, His responses consistently revealed His sovereignty and their spiritual blindness, as demonstrated in His brilliant answer regarding the coin and Caesar in [Matthew 22:18-22](/matthew/22-18-22 "Matthew 22:18-22 - Jesus' Response to the Tax Question"). This scene foreshadows the ultimate "entanglement" of the cross, where the sinless Lamb of God allowed Himself to be caught in the trap of human sin and judgment, not as a victim of human schemes, but as the willing sacrifice. His death, orchestrated by human hands driven by malice (cf. [Acts 2:23](/acts/2-23 "Acts 2:23 - Jesus Delivered Up by God's Plan")), was in fact the predetermined will of God to provide atonement for humanity. Thus, the Pharisees' plot, intended to destroy Jesus, unwittingly served God's greater purpose of bringing about the triumph of Christ over sin and death, fulfilling the prophetic narrative of the suffering servant who would be "cut off" yet bring salvation (cf. [Daniel 9:26](/daniel/9-26 "Daniel 9:26 - The Messiah Will Be Cut Off")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Luke 20:20

¶ And they watched [him], and sent forth spies, which should feign themselves just men, that they might take hold of his words, that so they might deliver him unto the power and authority of the governor.

Luke 20:26

And they could not take hold of his words before the people: and they marvelled at his answer, and held their peace.

Mark 12:13

¶ And they send unto him certain of the Pharisees and of the Herodians, to catch him in [his] words.

Mark 12:17

And Jesus answering said unto them, Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's. And they marvelled at him.

Psalms 56:5

Every day they wrest my words: all their thoughts [are] against me for evil.

Psalms 56:7

Shall they escape by iniquity? in [thine] anger cast down the people, O God.

Psalms 2:2

The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the LORD, and against his anointed, [saying],