It is remarkable that it is precisely in the presence of the investigating scribes that Jesus revealed that he is the one who came to bestow the forgiveness of sins promised by John. It is as though thereby he intentionally exposes himself from the beginning to the enmity that will lead to his death. By speaking these words in this company, Jesus begins to take up his cross. For he knows their inclination!1
8 And immediately Jesus, perceiving in his spirit that they thus questioned within themselves, said to them, “Why do you question these things in your hearts?