THE STORY OF JESUS: John 11:45-53
“Better that one man die for the people than that the whole nation perish.” (John 11:50)
As an occupied nation, Israel was at risk whenever someone claimed to be king.
The religious leaders worried that word of rebellion would bring Rome’s anger.
The temple and the nation were at great risk because of Jesus.
Often the Jews rallied to a messianic leader, hoping he would be the one.
But not THIS one, His teachings did not match their religious beliefs.
Jesus spoke against the religious leaders, and stood up for the weak and sinful.
Better to kill Jesus and eliminate the threat than to put temple and nation at risk.
John picks up on the irony of Caiaphas’s words.
Yes, better for Jesus to die – not just for Israel, but for all God’s children.
We are cursed because we sin, but Jesus did not die for sinning – but for loving.
God honours His humble, obedient love by vindicating Him, and removing the curse.
Jesus breaks the cycle of sin and death, and releases us all from their oppression.
Little did Caiaphas know how right he was, it is better for us that Jesus died!
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, as awful as death is, Your death was good and necessary. Thank You for setting us free from the curse of death, and for assuring us that death is now the gateway to life.