The terms "chief priests" and "elders" are frequently encountered in the New Testament, particularly in the Gospels and the Acts of the Apostles. These groups played significant roles in the religious and social life of Israel during the time of Jesus Christ.

Chief Priests

The chief priests were a select group within the broader category of priests who served in the Temple in Jerusalem. They were primarily from the tribe of Levi, specifically descendants of Aaron, and held significant religious authority. The chief priests included the high priest, who was the highest religious authority in Judaism, and other leading priests who were responsible for the administration of the Temple and its services.

The high priest held a unique position, serving as the primary mediator between God and the people, especially on the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur), when he entered the Holy of Holies to offer sacrifices for the sins of the nation (Leviticus 16). During the time of Jesus, the high priesthood was a politically influential position, often appointed by Roman authorities, which sometimes led to corruption and political maneuvering.

In the New Testament, the chief priests are often depicted as opponents of Jesus. They were instrumental in the plot to arrest and crucify Him, as seen in passages like Matthew 26:3-4: "At that time the chief priests and elders of the people assembled in the courtyard of the high priest, whose name was Caiaphas, and they conspired to arrest Jesus covertly and kill Him." Their opposition was largely due to Jesus' challenge to their authority and His growing popularity among the people.

Elders

The elders were leaders within the Jewish community, often associated with the Sanhedrin, the ruling council of the Jews. The term "elder" denotes a position of respect and authority, typically held by older, experienced men who were considered wise and knowledgeable in the Law of Moses.

Elders played a crucial role in the governance of Jewish society, both in religious and civil matters. They were involved in decision-making processes and were often consulted on legal and theological issues. In the New Testament, the elders are frequently mentioned alongside the chief priests and scribes, forming a triad of leadership within the Jewish religious hierarchy.

Like the chief priests, the elders were often in opposition to Jesus and His teachings. They were part of the group that sought to discredit Him and ultimately played a role in His trial and crucifixion. In Matthew 27:1, it is recorded: "When morning came, all the chief priests and elders of the people conspired against Jesus to put Him to death."

Role in the Early Church

After the resurrection of Jesus, the chief priests and elders continued to oppose the early Christian movement. In Acts 4:5-7, Peter and John are brought before the Sanhedrin, which included the chief priests and elders, to account for their preaching about Jesus. Despite their opposition, the early church grew rapidly, empowered by the Holy Spirit and the testimony of the apostles.

The chief priests and elders, as depicted in the New Testament, represent the established religious order that resisted the transformative message of Jesus Christ. Their interactions with Jesus and the early Christians highlight the tension between the old covenant, centered on the Temple and the Law, and the new covenant, inaugurated by Jesus' death and resurrection.