John’s full account of the group that arrested him adds details not mentioned in the other Gospels. The temple authorities sent Roman soldiers and temple guards. While the temple guards arrested Jesus, the Roman soldiers stood by to prevent a riot. The Roman group was large enough to need a commander. They came with weapons and were expecting a struggle (18:10, 12). Many people claimed to be the Messiah. Often, they tried to force the Romans out of the land, which caused political conflict.