24
So Judas went into the surrounding Judean highlands and took vengeance on those who had deserted. He prevented them from going out into the country.
25
When Alcimus saw that Judas and his companions had grown strong, he knew he couldn't resist them. So he returned to the king and brought spiteful charges against them.
26
Then the king sent for Nicanor, one of his honored princes who hated and despised Israel, and the king commanded him to destroy the people.
27
So Nicanor went to Jerusalem with a large force. He deceitfully sent a peaceful message to Judas and his brothers:
28
"Let there be no fighting between you and me. I'll come with a few men to see you personally in peace."