John 11:46-53

46But some of them went back to the Pharisees and told them what Jesus had done.

47So the chief priests and Pharisees convened a council [of the leaders in Israel], and said, “What are we doing? For this man performs many signs (attesting miracles).

48If we let Him go on like this, everyone will believe in Him, and the Romans will come and take away both our [holy] place (the temple) and our nation.”

49But one of them, Caiaphas, who was the high priest that year [the year of Christ’s crucifixion], said to them, “You know nothing at all!

50Nor do you understand that it is expedient and politically advantageous for you that one man die for the people, and that the whole nation not perish.”

51Now he did not say this [simply] on his own initiative; but being the high priest that year, he [was unknowingly used by God and] prophesied that Jesus was going to die for the nation,

52and not only for the nation, but also for the purpose of gathering together into one body the children of God who have been scattered abroad.

53So from that day on they planned together to kill Him.