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Caiaphas and the Temple Guard from 1974 album Paid on the Nail by singer/songwriter Graham Kendrick.

Caiaphas and the Temple Guard explores the tension and conflict surrounding Jesus during His ministry, as seen through the eyes of the religious leaders and temple guards. The song begins with questions and skepticism about Jesus’ identity - who is this man from Nazareth with no wealth, no weapons, and no formal authority, yet who stirs the crowds and challenges the status quo?

As the lyrics progress, there is an acknowledgement of Jesus' impact: He speaks with authority, performs miracles, and wields love as His power. Despite recognising His goodness and the positive changes He brings, the leaders express frustration and fear over His growing influence, viewing Him as a threat to their established order.

Caiaphas, the high priest, emerges as the voice of pragmatic realism, declaring that Jesus’ ideals and teachings could lead to conflict and division. Faced with the challenge to their authority and fearing the potential upheaval of their religious state, Caiaphas decides that Jesus must die for the sake of unity and stability.

The song captures the internal conflict and political manoeuvring of the religious leaders, as they struggle with Jesus' popularity and the implications of His teachings. It culminates in the chilling resolve to bring an end to the perceived threat that Jesus poses, highlighting the tragic irony of condemning the very figure who came to heal and unite.

Originally released on the Key Records label, ‘Paid on the Nail’ was Graham’s third album and a landmark in his ministry.

It continued the acoustic/folky style which had been Graham’s hallmark in his earlier recordings but also introduced a wider variety and subtlety of arrangements and other instruments including Peter Roe on the Moog synthesiser. The songs were written while Graham was part of a team ministry called ‘In the name of Jesus’ who engaged in evangelism and church renewal around the UK.

Song lyrics and MP3 download:

https://grahamkendrick.co.uk/caiaphas...

Who is this man from Nazareth?
No pack, no purse, no sword,
No style, no reputation
Shaking this town with his word?

Who is this handsome prophet?
Whose army is he from?
Whose badge, whose revolution?
Tell me, whose side is he on?

All that I know is he speaks with authority
Love is his badge and his word is his sword
Oh he’s a good man well so say the majority
How can I argue?
How can I argue with men he has healed?

So he’s the great idealist!
I’ve seen his kind before!
I tell you I’m a realist,
His love could make me a war!

All that I know is he’s speaking in parables
Speaks like a god and he smiles like a king
Wherever he goes are rejoicing and miracles
How can I argue?
How can I argue when I think I agree?

Enough of this conversation!
You fools are deaf and blind!
At stake is our state of religion!
We could be divided,
And so I’ve decided,
One man for the people shall die!

What shall we do with Jesus?
What do you say my friends?
Please join my resolution
Would anyone care to,
Would anyone dare to,
Bring this affair to an end?

Graham Kendrick
Copyright © 1974 Make Way Music,
www.grahamkendrick.co.uk

Released:
1974 (Key Records)

Producer:
John Pantry

Recorded at:
R G Jones Studios, London and Echo Studios, Eastbourne

Musicians:
Graham Kendrick - Acoustic Guitar
Peter Roe - Moog Synthesiser
Nick Ryan - Bass Guitar
Mike Wade - Drums
Ken Freeman - String Synthesiser