THEOSISJohn Chrysostom
Observe how they reveal their internal contradictions driven by embarrassment and guilt when they state, "Lest you do us harm." Why do they hold such great fear of the just man, especially when his demeanor remains so gentle toward those who wrong him? Yet the unchanging Judge - their conscience has stirred within them, and they recognize the wrong they have inflicted upon the just man. Overcome by fear and confusion, they fail to see their own inconsistencies. "Lest you should do," they argue, "us harm, even though we have not wronged you." If this is the case, why then did you cast him out? The just man does not seek retribution from them, nor does he call attention to their words.
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"But they did," the Scripture states, "one good deed for you, and they let you go in peace; now you are blessed of the Lord." Do you see their fear of divine retribution? They understood that although the just man, due to his humility, refrained from avenging himself, the One who cared for him would hold them accountable for their actions towards him. As a result, they seek to appease the just man, asking for reconciliation while simultaneously expressing remorse for their past actions and ensuring their future safety.