Caiaphas was the high priest of Israel during the ministry and crucifixion of Jesus — the son-in-law of Annas (the previous high priest and power-behind-the-throne), appointed by the Roman prefect Valerius Gratus, held in office 18 years (AD 18-36), which required constant collaboration with Roman power. The Gospels portray him as the principal human engineer of Jesus' death. After Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead (John 11), the Jewish leaders convened a council. They feared a Roman crackdown if Jesus' movement grew: "If we let Him alone like this, everyone will believe in Him, and the Romans will come and take away both our place and nation" (John 11:48). Caiaphas responded with cold political calculation: "You know nothing at all, nor do you consider that it is expedient for us that one man should die for the people, and not that the whole nation should perish" (John 11:49-50). John immediately adds a stunning commentary: "Now this he did not say on his own authority; but being high priest that year he prophesied that Jesus would die for the nation" (11:51). Caiaphas spoke greater truth than he knew. His cynical political wisdom became unwitting gospel: one Man would indeed die for the people. At Jesus' trial, Caiaphas asked the decisive question: "I put You under oath by the living God: Tell us if You are the Christ, the Son of God!" Jesus answered: "It is as you said. Nevertheless, I say to you, hereafter you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Power, and coming on the clouds of heaven" (Matthew 26:63-64). Caiaphas tore his robes (a violation of the Law for a high priest, ironically) and declared it blasphemy. The Sanhedrin condemned Jesus to death. Caiaphas is the picture of the religious man who uses religion as an instrument of power — the most dangerous kind of sinner, because his corruption wears vestments.