John Chrysostom
Catena Aurea · Lukasevangelium 22
Lk 22, Verses 1–2English original
Now the feast of unleavened bread drew nigh, which is called the Passover. And the Chief Priests and Scribes sought how they might kill him; for they feared the people.
Chrys. Hom. 79. in Matt.) The Chief Priests set about their impious deed on the feast, as it follows, And the Chief Priests and Scribes, &c. Moses ordained only one Priest, at whose death another was to be appointed. But at that time, when the Jewish customs had begun to fall away, there were many made every year. These then wishing to kill Jesus, are not afraid of God, lest in truth the holy time should aggravate the pollution of their sin, but every where fear man. Hence it follows, For they feared the people.