John 11:47-53 – Jesus our substitute

The raising of Lazarus from the dead was undeniable. Many of the Jews, who knew of his death, went to console Mary. But they saw Jesus raised him from death. Some were convinced and believed in Jesus. Others blinded by their rage to destroy Him, went away to report to the Pharisees. What was told to the council created a stir. The “council” clearly comprised of chief priests and the Pharisees. Without a doubt, Jesus had clearly shown Himself to be their long awaited Messiah through His many signs. There were enough evidences to warrant their acceptance of His Messiahship and caused them to honor Him. But apparently their stubbornness was not moved. And they admonished themselves for their delay in seizing and silencing Him. They even showed how intensely they disliked Jesus and were bent on stopping His mission.

They reckoned, “If we let Him go on like this, all men will believe in Him, and the Romans will come and take away both our place and our nation.” They were concerned that Jesus was gaining increasing support, and many convinced by Him were believing in Him. They were also fearful that an increasing disturbance, caused by the raising of Lazarus, might cause the Romans to take away their freedom to live the national life that was granted to them. Bear in mind that at this point they were nearing the Passover. Jerusalem was unusually crowded with the increasing number of people coming from all over, in preparation for that feast. The council deemed it wise to try to repress the enthusiasm.   

At this point we are introduced to the high priest at that time. John here identified him as Caiaphas. He rose and said, “You know nothing at all, nor do you take into account that it is expedient for you that one man die for the people, and that the whole nation not perish.”  Bear in mind that the council were in a quandary, not knowing what to do. All they did up to now was to ask questions. Caiaphas was clearly impatient with their vacillation so he contemptuously told them off. He said, “You know nothing at all, nor do you take into account that it is expedient for you that one man die for the people, and that the whole nation not perish.” Here is a paraphrase of what Caiaphas was saying, “Let’s stay focused. There’s only one thing to keep in mind in our best interest. And we better understand this. Our question on what’s best for us has only one answer - Jesus must die. Forget about His miracles, or teaching, yes, even forget about His character if His presence is jeopardizing our status. I am in favor to put Him to death.” With that remark, the evil proposal of Caiaphas was adopted. He of course didn’t know that he did not say this out of his own initiative. He was in fact prophesying that the Messiah would die for the nation. And not only that, through His death He would gather together all the children of God, even those who are scattered abroad. So from that day on, they were planning and seeking to kill Jesus. 

The explanation in verses 51-52 shows us what was ahead. The high priest for that year had prophesied that Jesus would die in our place. He became our substitute. Had it not been for Him, we would be forever lost. So as we close, let’s draw our minds to Calvary once again. Let’s keep our focus on Jesus, who hanged on that tree and be forever grateful. He died to set us free so that we might freely live for Him.