We come to the fallout of that miracle: his rivals want Jesus dead. And they are openly plotting his demise. They accurately assess that Jesus is a threat, but not in the way they expect. In this passage, the high priest himself says it would be expedient that one man die for a nation, but he assumed that would end the threat of Jesus. He had no idea that Jesus dying in our place would be the power that would transform all of creation. How does that work? And what does it mean for those who follow Jesus?
Discussion Questions:
Describe a time when you felt threatened. Try to think of examples different from a physical threat. What did you stand to lose?
Why is a miracle worker a threat? Why would healing people be threatening to the status quo?
What do we stand to lose if all our best works are cast aside? What sorts of things are difficult for you to relinquish? What are you relying on for safety and security?
Consider the prophetic irony of Caiaphas' statement (v.49-50). Read Joseph's famous statement in Genesis 50:20. When people intend evil yet we trust God reclaims it for good, does that make the injustice any easier to endure? Why or why not?
The Hebrew word for "atone" means "to cover over." In our reading from Hebrews 10, the Scriptures say the blood of animals is not enough to cover us (v.4). How does Jesus' blood do what animal blood cannot? (Hebrews 10:14) Why does being 'covered' matter in our daily lives - or worse, to be 'uncovered' or exposed?
Read these verses together: Psalm 103:12; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Ephesians 2:13. What does the Bible say Jesus' blood does for us? If Jesus became a curse for us (Galatians 3:13), how might we become the righteousness of God (2 Corinthians 5:21)?
The leaders also wanted Lazarus dead because of this miracle (John 12:10). How might Christ transforming people make them outcasts, or even perceived threats? Have you ever rejected someone’s life-changing faith? Why did you do that? Has anyone ever rejected or tested your own spiritual transformation?
Memorize Galatians 2:20 (below). Given what you’re facing right now, how might internalizing this verse encourage you this week?
“I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” (Galatians 2:20 ESV)
