Upon returning again to Jerusalem (see 11:1, 11, 15), Jesus and the disciples entered the temple. The frequent repetition of Jerusalem reminds Mark's audience of what would soon take place there (10:32–34; see 8:31; 9:31; 14:1–16:8).
In the temple, Jesus met the leading priests, the teachers of the law, and the elders. These three groups formed the 71-member high council, the main ruling body of the Jewish nation. Earlier passages already show these leaders opposing Jesus (8:31; see also 14:43, 53; 15:1), so their conflict with him here is not surprising.