Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Luke 6:7

"And the scribes and the Pharisees watched him, whether he would heal on the sabbath; that they might find how to accuse him." — Luke 6:7 (ASV)

The second Sabbath controversy involves basically the same issue as the first—human need versus ceremonial law. Jesus is teaching in the synagogue, and when he sees the man with the atrophied and useless hand, Jesus takes the initiative. As in 5:17, the “Pharisees and teachers of the law” (v.7) are present, scrutinizing Jesus’ every action to find fault. Now, after the first Sabbath controversy, they think they have a case against him. Jesus is aware of their thoughts (v.8) and in the light of that knowledge performs the healing. He has the man stand in front of the people so that all will see what follows.