True Prophecy from an Untrue Man

SCRIPTURE: John 11:49-53
Then one of them, named Caiaphas, who was high priest that year, spoke up, “You know nothing at all! You do not realize that it is better for you that one man die for the people than that the whole nation perish.”

He did not say this on his own, but as high priest that year he prophesied that Jesus would die for the Jewish nation, and not only for that nation but also for the scattered children of God, to bring them together and make them one. So from that day on they plotted to take his life.

OBSERVATION: This scripture is fascinating to me. Caiaphas, makes an accurate prophecy about Jesus months before he sacrifices his life on the cross. His prophecy states that Jesus' mission includes redemption for "the scattered children of God, to bring them together and make them one". Ephesians tells us that Jesus died for the Gentiles and the Jews and broke down the wall between them, making them one. I'm sure Caiaphas did not think his prophecy had anything to do with Gentiles; he probably thought it referred only to exiled Jews. But it is one of those unusual scriptures that shows that God can speak truth through "unworthy" vessels; people who do not have really care about advancing God's kingdom, even though they may be religious.

APPLICATION: Don't be too impressed with religious leaders who move in the gifts of the Spirit. The Spirit sometimes uses odd messengers who do not have good character. The fruit of the Spirit is a more accurate measure of who is a good leader to follow. It's easier to move in the gifts than to demonstrate godly character over the long haul.

PRAYER: Father, I want to flow in the gifts of your Holy Spirit more and more. I thank you for them all. But more important to me is that I reflect Your heart, Your character, to others. May I please You in all I think, say and do. In Jesus' Name, Amen.