51 And this spake he not of himself: but being high priest that year, he prophesied that Jesus should die for that nation;
51 He did not say this on his own, but as high priest that year he prophesied that Jesus would die for the Jewish nation,
51 He did not say this of his own accord, but being high priest that year he prophesied that Jesus would die for the nation,
51 He didn't say this of his own accord, but as Chief Priest that year he unwittingly prophesied that Jesus was about to die sacrificially for the nation,
51 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,
51 He did not say this on his own; as high priest at that time he was led to prophesy that Jesus would die for the entire nation.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on John 11:51
Commentary on John 11:47-53
(Read John 11:47-53)
There can hardly be a more clear discovery of the madness that is in man's heart, and of its desperate enmity against God, than what is here recorded. Words of prophecy in the mouth, are not clear evidence of a principle of grace in the heart. The calamity we seek to escape by sin, we take the most effectual course to bring upon our own heads; as those do who think by opposing Christ's kingdom, to advance their own worldly interest. The fear of the wicked shall come upon them. The conversion of souls is the gathering of them to Christ as their ruler and refuge; and he died to effect this. By dying he purchased them to himself, and the gift of the Holy Ghost for them: his love in dying for believers should unite them closely together.