Caiaphas, by any measure, was a highly successful figure in ancient Biblical times. He served as the high priest of Israel for an extended period in the first century, one of the longest tenures imaginable in that era. He had strong political and governmental connections, and his family held influential positions. By worldly standards, he seemed to do everything right.

Yet, despite his success, we remember him most for what I would hope was his greatest regret—but we cannot be certain. He is known for leading the charge in the crucifixion of Christ.

But one of them, named Caiaphas, who was high priest that year, said to them, “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.” John 11:49-50

At this, the high priest tore his clothes and declared, “He has blasphemed! Why do we need any more witnesses? Look, now you have heard the blasphemy. What do you think?” “He deserves to die,” they answered. Matthew 26:65-66

By any metric, he was successful. He knew the right people, maintained the right political relationships, and aligned himself with the governing authorities. However, when it came to recognizing the Messiah, he missed it. Instead of seeing Christ for who He truly was, Caiaphas perceived Him as a threat—a disruptor of the peace. His focus was so deeply rooted in preserving political stability and maintaining control over the land that he saw Jesus as someone who could incite a governmental crackdown, jeopardizing their power. He obeyed the law so well that he could find ways around it. When they arrested Jesus, they trialed Him through the night. This might not mean much until you realize that there was a law forbidding that very thing, which is likely the main reason His verdict wasn’t announced until the next morning. This verdict was an illusion to a fair trial. It was saying, “Hey! We did this by the book! If we broke the law and did a trial in the night, why would we have waited until this morning?”

Caiaphas was smart and knew how to walk the line and manage the proper relationships. His management of peace and preservation of Israel was well-intended and could have even been praised. His long-lasting tenure was respected, and his relationship with politics appeared to be beneficial for his country. Yet, his focus was in the wrong place and person.

In today’s world, we must reflect on this same lesson. We cannot allow ourselves to become so consumed with reclaiming our country, supporting particular leaders, or championing policies—whether right or wrong—that we lose sight of God. We cannot focus too heavily on any one issue or side. The restoration of a country means nothing if there’s no restoration of the soul. If we become overly invested in worldly measures of success, we risk neglecting what truly matters: who God is, what He has commanded us to do, how He has called us to live, and how He has instructed us to love others.

Our focus must remain on what is truly important—and we must be willing to let go of the rest. Don’t lose sight of Jesus. Don’t be another Caiaphas.