Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary John 7:32

"The Pharisees heard the multitude murmuring these things concerning him; and the chief priests and the Pharisees sent officers to take him." — John 7:32 (ASV)

The favorable reaction of those who believed prompted the chief priests and Pharisees to action. To delay longer might result in more people turning to Jesus. The attempted arrest was official since the temple guards constituted the arresting party.