Religion Without Relationship - Life Lessons From CaiaphasSample

Who was Caiaphas? 

Caiaphas was born of the tribe of Levi whom God had set apart to be the priests and religious leaders of Israel. He married into one of the most influential families of his day, the High Priest Annas, who served as High Priest from 6 to 15 AD.

Although Caiaphas was the official High Priest, most Biblical scholars believe that Annas continued to be the power behind the throne. We see this in John 18:13 where it says, “And they led Him away to Annas first, for he was the father-in-law of Caiaphas who was high priest that year." And Luke 3:2 says, “while Annas and Caiaphas were high priests,…” Thus, even though he was out of office, Annas played a major role in the religious affairs of Israel and in Jesus' trial, an indication he may have advised or even controlled Caiaphas. 

Caiaphas which in Greek means “searcher” is only mentioned four times in the New Testament: at the raising of Lazarus in John chapter 11, at the trial of Jesus in Matthew 26 and John 18 and at the trial of Peter and John in Acts chapter 4. And yet, he played a crucial role in the plot to crucify Jesus. 

Caiaphas served as High Priest for 18 years. But although little is known of Caiaphas’ 18-year tenure, the length suggests that he must have worked well with Roman authorities. Many scholars believe that Caiaphas had a close working relationship with Pontius Pilate. Regardless, Caiaphas was shrewd and adaptable enough to appease the Romans while still protecting the religious freedom of Israel. High Priests were both respected and despised by the Jewish population. They were seen as playing a critical role in the religious life of the nation. At the same time, many Jews resented the close relationship they maintained with Roman authorities, suspecting them of being influenced, taking bribes or practicing other forms of corruption.

Was Caiaphas religious? Definitely. As the High Priest, he served as the Jews' representative to God. He led the people in worship and performed religious rituals in strict obedience to the Mosaic law. Once a year the High Priest would enter the Holy of Holies, the most sacred of places where God’s throne, the Ark of the Covenant resided, and he would offer sacrifices to Yahweh. The High Priest was also in charge of the temple treasury, controlled the temple police and lower ranking priests and attendants, and served as president of the Sanhedrin.

But yet, he had no relationship with God, because he was willing to crucify Jesus.

Quote

“Most men, indeed, play at religion as they play at games, religion itself being of all games the one most universally played.” – A. W. Tozer

Prayer

Lord, I pray that You will help me to examine my life, to see if I am following Christianity as a religion or having a relationship with You and following You. Amen