In the New Testament, the Jewish leaders and bystanders play significant roles in the narrative of Jesus Christ's ministry, crucifixion, and resurrection. These groups are often depicted in various interactions with Jesus, highlighting themes of authority, belief, and fulfillment of prophecy.

Jewish Leaders:

The Jewish leaders during the time of Jesus included the Pharisees, Sadducees, scribes, and members of the Sanhedrin. These groups held religious and political authority within Jewish society and were often in conflict with Jesus due to His teachings and actions, which challenged their interpretations of the Law and their authority.

1. Pharisees: The Pharisees were a religious sect known for their strict adherence to the Law and oral traditions. They frequently confronted Jesus, questioning His authority and attempting to trap Him in theological debates. In Matthew 23, Jesus criticizes the Pharisees for their hypocrisy, saying, "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You shut the kingdom of heaven in men's faces" (Matthew 23:13).

2. Sadducees: The Sadducees, another influential group, were known for their denial of the resurrection and adherence to the written Law alone. They also challenged Jesus, particularly on matters of the resurrection, as seen in Matthew 22:23-33, where Jesus refutes their disbelief by affirming the resurrection.

3. Scribes: The scribes were experts in the Law and often aligned with the Pharisees. They are depicted as questioning Jesus' authority and understanding of the Law. In Mark 12:28-34, a scribe acknowledges Jesus' wisdom after He summarizes the greatest commandments.

4. Sanhedrin: The Sanhedrin was the ruling council of Jewish leaders, comprising Pharisees and Sadducees. They played a crucial role in the trial and condemnation of Jesus. In Mark 14:55-64, the Sanhedrin seeks false testimony against Jesus to put Him to death, ultimately accusing Him of blasphemy.

Bystanders:

The bystanders in the Gospel narratives include the general populace who witnessed Jesus' miracles, teachings, and crucifixion. Their reactions varied from belief and amazement to skepticism and mockery.

1. Witnesses of Miracles: Many bystanders witnessed Jesus' miracles and were amazed, leading some to believe in Him. In John 6:14, after the feeding of the five thousand, the people declare, "This is truly the Prophet who is to come into the world" (John 6:14).

2. Crowds during the Triumphal Entry: As Jesus entered Jerusalem, the crowds welcomed Him with shouts of "Hosanna!" acknowledging Him as the Son of David (Matthew 21:9). This event fulfilled the prophecy of Zechariah 9:9, demonstrating the mixed understanding and expectations of the Messiah.

3. Witnesses of the Crucifixion: At the crucifixion, bystanders included those who mocked Jesus, saying, "He saved others, but He cannot save Himself!" (Mark 15:31). However, some, like the centurion, recognized His divine nature, proclaiming, "Truly this man was the Son of God!" (Mark 15:39).

4. Post-Resurrection Witnesses: After Jesus' resurrection, bystanders included those who encountered the risen Christ and the apostles' testimony. In Acts 2, Peter addresses the crowd at Pentecost, leading to the conversion of about three thousand souls (Acts 2:41).

The interactions between Jesus, the Jewish leaders, and the bystanders reveal the tension between human authority and divine mission, the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, and the varied human responses to the revelation of Jesus as the Messiah.