And therefore did the Jews persecute Jesus, and sought to slay him, because he had done these things on the sabbath day.
Ver. 16. Therefore did the Jews persecute Jesus] This he foreknew would follow, and yet he forbore not. In the discharge of our consciences (tightly informed and regulated) we must not stand to cast perils; but do our duties zealously, whatever come of it. This courage in Christians, heathens counted obstinacy, but they knew not the power of the Spirit, nor the privy armour of proof that saints have about their hearts.