{Sought how they might destroy him} (ez(8874)oun p(9373) auton
apoles(9373)in). Imperfect indicative, a continuous attitude and
endeavour. Note deliberative subjunctive with p(9373) retained in
indirect question. Here both Sadducees (chief priests) and
Pharisees (scribes) combine in their resentment against the
claims of Jesus and in the determination to kill him. Long ago
the Pharisees and the Herodians had plotted for his death ( Mr
3:6 ). Now in Jerusalem the climax has come right in the temple.
{For they feared him} (ephobounto gar). Imperfect middle
indicative. Hence in wrath they planned his death and yet they
had to be cautious. The Triumphal Entry had shown his power with
the people. And now right in the temple itself "all the multitude
was astonished at his teaching" (p(8373) ho ochlos exepl(8873)seto epi
t(8869) didach(8869) autou). Imperfect passive. The people looked on
Jesus as a hero, as the Messiah. This verse aptly describes the
crisis that has now come between Christ and the Sanhedrin.