After the miracle of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead, the news of this event spread like wild fire. Many more put their faith in him. Some of those who heard went to the Pharisees to report what had happened. The Pharisees at this point took a serious look at their attack against Jesus. They had questioned him, they called him out in public, they attempted to condemn him as a leader by throwing a prostitute before him. Yet, none of this was working and now the situation was growing worse.
Why were they so concerned about Jesus? For one simple reason – power. There was a lais·sez-faire type of government setup by the Roman empire after seizing control in 63 B.C. The Jews were able to conduct their business as usual and the Pharisees were still able to remain in power by enforcing their laws and holding leadership positions that were recognized by the Roman authorities. Their fear was that Jesus would become popular enough where he would take over not only over the Pharisees but also challenging the Romans rule as well. This is why in verse 48 the Pharisees say that this movement will result in both the temple and their nation perishing.
This however, is what many of the Jews were waiting for. The Messaiah who was to come and restore all things that was prophisied in the Old Testament. The one who was to restore Israel back to the glory days of Solomon and David. However, there was one catch, Jesus did not intend to come and restore things physically. His mission was much greater. His mission had a bigger dream behind it then anyone could ever imagine, to take away the sins of the world.
The high priest, Caiaphas, missed this pivotal part of the game plan when he spoke of his prophecy about Jesus. Yet, though he was blind to this, he thought he saw clearly. He had a vision or a prophesy that Jesus would die for the Jewish nation and that Jesus would bring together all those who are scattered together as one. Now we see that this was given to him to point that Jesus was the Messiah and was to die for the sins of the world. But, Caiaphas, the high priest, misinterpreted this in his earthly eyes to mean that it was his duty to rid Jesus from the scene to keep him and the Roman leadership intact and by doing so “keep” the Jews together. They were so set on this that they even planned to kill Lazarus as well.
Though he thought he saw clearly, the High Priest was blind to the truth. This is what happens when we are not open to God’s bigger plan in our life – we miss the boat. If the Pharisees were to accept what God was doing they could have joined in the blessing and glory. But, they became an obstacle instead. An obstacle that was in reality, part of his plan. Either way, God’s plan will succeed. The question is, will we be a part of it?
Dear God, open my eyes to see your perfect plan. Allow me to see the simplicity of the gospel as Jesus did. Not to be an obstacle between people but a force that binds people together in the faith of Jesus Christ. Thank you for your Word and that the failure of others can be a lesson to us.
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