Did You Know?/Who Were the Scribes Who Opposed Jesus?

 During his ministry Jesus encountered scribes not only in Jerusalem but also in similar towns and villages. Outside of Jerusalem-and even in Jewish communities outside of Palestine-such men were minor officials, learned in the Law, who may have served as copyists or local judges. -MARK2:6; 9:14; LUKE 5:17-21.

In Jerusalem, scribes were closely associated with Jewish government. (Matthew 16:21) Their role there, says the Anchor Bible Dictionary, 'seems to be as associates of priests, both in judicial proceeding and enforcement of Jewish custom and law, and ongoing business in the Sanhedrin." As high- ranking teachers of the Law, some of these scribes were actually members of the Sanhedrin, or Jewish high court.  They served along with the chief priests and Pharisees. 

Most often, the scribes appear as Jesus' religious oppponents.  However some did not oppose him. For example, one scribe told Jesus: "I will follow you wherever you about to go." Jesus said to another: "You are not far off from the king of God." - MATTHEW 8:19; MARK 12:28-34.

Next time: Did You Know?/Who Were the Scribes Who Opposed Jesus? -What did it mean for a person to be anointed? 

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