We are reminded of the famous response of Joseph to his brothers in Genesis 50. Joseph had been treated horribly by his older brothers. He had been sold into slavery because of their jealousy. Now many years later He is the second in command in Egypt and his brothers are in a position of need. He tells his scared brothers not to fear because what they had meant for evil, God had meant for good.
The Jews now make plans to put Jesus to death to protect themselves and their nation. They are jealous of Jesus and they do not want to lose their worldly position or influence. They do not mean it for good, but God does. Jesus came into the world that He might die for the sins of His people. He came to willingly lay down His life to save us.
The high priest is right. It is better that one man die for the people than the whole nation perish. Christ came to die for His people that they might not perish but have everlasting life in Him.
Consider: Isaiah 53:1-12
