What does EGW write about...
Adventistische Schriften über: "The Gospel reports that Caiaphas and Annas were both high priests. In the priesthood, however, there may be only one high priest. We know that Annas, who was respected by the Sanhedrin, was already appointed as high priest when Caiaphas was also appointed. Can someone from the Bible explain that there were not two high priests serving at the same time, or was it really so."
Answer
In the biblical era at the time of Jesus there was officially only one serving high priest, but the Roman rule disrupted the original divine order. Annas was the former high priest and the head of the priestly family, so the people continued to recognize and respect him as such because of his age and influence. Although Caiaphas, his son‑in‑law, was the high priest officially appointed by the Romans, Annas acted as his important advisor and collaborator, which is why both are mentioned in the Gospel.
The Role of Annas and Caiaphas in the Priesthood
Annas was the head of the serving priestly family, and out of respect for his age he was recognized by the people as high priest. His counsel was sought and carried out as the voice of God. ... His craftiness, cunning and subtlety had to be employed on this occasion; for in any case the condemnation of Christ had to be ensured.
Therefore Annas was the co‑adjutor of Caiaphas, the high priest who ruled at that time; and because of his age, rank and his significance as a man of foremost importance and influence in the state, he is mentioned first. This explains why, when Jesus was arrested, he was taken “first to the house of Annas,” who “bound him and sent him to Caiaphas,” the high priest.
Under the Roman governors, however, different persons were appointed as high priest at various times, none of whom remained in office longer than a year. ... Caiaphas is rightly portrayed in the Gospel account as the high priest in whose year the sufferings of our Savior were completed.
The Romans claimed the right to appoint and remove the high priest, and the office was often obtained through fraud, bribery, and even murder. Thus the priesthood became increasingly corrupt. Nevertheless the priests still possessed great power.
- Annas and Caiaphas high priests
- Roman priesthood Israel
- High Council investigation of Jesus
Original Sources (English)
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