John the Apostle recorded a discussion that took place between the chief priests and the Pharisees. They were concerned that Jesus was attracting too many followers, and would arouse the ‘interests’ of the Romans. What to do?
Then Caiaphas, the high priest, spoke up. “You don’t know what you’re talking about! You don’t realize that it’s better for you that one man should die for the people than for the whole nation to be destroyed.” (John 11:49-50, NLT)
“One man should die for the people.” Caiaphas was concerned that the nation not be attacked by the Romans, and that, if they sacrificed this one man, Jesus, it would limit the danger. Get rid of Jesus, and the Romans would not expect an insurrection.
John records that Caiaphas didn’t come up with this on his own, but that the Lord God communicated through him. Caiaphas spoke of a substitute, not knowing that that Substitute would actually give His life, not only for Judea but for the whole world.
One man, Jesus. The Son of Man, the Son of God, our Savior and Redeemer.
“These have been written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name.” (John 20:31)
Pastor John