Were you there? Caiaphas

“You do not understand that it is better for you to have one man die for the people than to have the whole nation destroyed” John 11:50, NLT

Caiaphas, the son-in-law of Annas, was the acting high priest who presided over Jesus's Jewish trial. A Sadducee, he served as high priest for nineteen years, a remarkable tenure given that high priests were typically deposed after just one year in office. That suggests he was politically focused and determined to preserve his place.

When the Sanhedrin convened to decide what to do about Jesus following the raising of Lazarus, they feared that if Jesus continued performing signs, he would gain widespread support, prompting the Romans to destroy the temple and the nation. It was Caiaphas who spoke, saying, “You do not understand that it is better for you to have one man die for the people than to have the whole nation destroyed” (John 11:50). John says that Caiaphas, unknowingly, prophesied. God spoke through him, revealing that Jesus' death would bring salvation not only to Israel but also to the Gentiles. Following this meeting, the Sanhedrin set their plans in motion to have Jesus killed.

Caiaphas unwittingly co-operated with the Father’s redemption plans proving God's purpose prevails, even when humans scheme.

Let’s pray
Lord, thank you that your sovereign plan triumphs. Help me to feed on your faithfulness and trust that your purpose will always be worked out in my life and circumstances. In Jesus’ name. Amen.